ewicklem wrote:I have a 5 year old female RES. She is currently housed in a 40 gal. breeder tank, water temp of 77 deg., basking lamp ( no UVB bulb. I would like a recommendation ), fed reptomin, and well filtered at 350 gal/hr with ammo-carb. Lately (approx 2 wks), she has not been eating, seems very lethargic, and there has been a film on her water that I can only decribe as an oil slick which goes away for a day after a water and complete fiter cleaning but returns. This "oil slick" has just recently begun happening. I am desperate for any help and/or sugestions to help my RES Gertrude.
ewicklem@msn.com
Increase the water temperature to about 80° F.
Definitely invest in a UVB bulb, and make sure that your basking light is very warm - and there's a nice and dry area for her.
Listen to her breathing, is there any noise? If so, classic sign of a respiratory infection. Also, if you do see her swim, and she's lopsided - it's likely a respiratory infection.
I would check filters and clean the entire tank, including the filter. It might be a long process, but you need to do it... especially if you haven't cleaned in a while.
Also, check for chlorine and the quality of the water in the tank - you can pickup testing strips at your local aquatic pet supply shop. Make sure you are NOT using filtered water ie, water from a filter. Use tap water, but make sure your tap water isn't chlorinated or has any harmful chemicals in it. If you can drink it, your turtles probably can.
Keep her warm, and take her to your local turtle vet. Make sure he/she knows what they are doing. Ask for vitamin shots as well as fluid shots - she could be dehydrated. In addition, ask for antibiotics - they can only help her.
Hope this helps!
Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2009 4:52 pm