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Soft shell, white spots, dry eyes

PostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2008 8:54 pm
by myryspace
I have 2 RES about 2 inches in length. They both now have soft shells with white spots on them. I feed them twice daily. I feed them pellets and shrimp. They also have a UVB light for basking and that bask frequently. I also feed them feeder fish. They also have a cuddle bone. Why are their shells turning soft?

PostPosted: Tue Sep 09, 2008 11:22 pm
by octpusgirl8
Can you answer the questions in this link for us? Pictures would also be helpful for us.

PostPosted: Wed Sep 10, 2008 11:20 pm
by steve
Soft shell is an extremely serious situation. Hatchling shells are slightly pliable and if you think the shells are getting softer, then I would suggest a vet visit right away.

PostPosted: Thu Sep 11, 2008 7:29 pm
by marisa
How long have you had them and when did you notice their shells were getting softer?

How many pellets does each get at a feeding? Are they given shrimp at each feeding as well? If so, give it only as an occasional treat. How often do they get feeder fish, and how many are they given at a time? Do they actually nibble on the cuttlebone?

What kind of UVB light are you using and how old is it? What's the temp of the basking area?

Exactly how soft are the shells? If they're quite soft (you can depress your finger into the shell if you gently press), there's an imbalance in their diet and/or they're not getting adequate UVB rays.

Can you post a pic of their shells when they're dry?