General Care Discussion :: tank trouble

[blushh]

I have a 65 gallon tank with two red ear sliders, both males, I'm having the worst luck with this tank , the water evaporates way too fast within a week it will be half empty , no leaks I've checked multiple times , the water temp is 75, I've had some serious issues with their water constantly getting cloudy , I use safe start and aqua safe water decolorizer , nothing seems to help I have a 75+ gallon filter from aqueon , I live in the country so we use "city water" but the water evaporation has me concerned because the same thing is happening to my bettas tank , any advice will be appericiated especially what chemicals to use , I live an hour away from walmart and pet stores

[steve]

Are you keeping the tank filled to the top? Are you having humidity problems? How long have you had your tank?

[Jeremiah]

Like Steve said, we need to know how long you've had the tank. If it's new, then the cloudiness is just part of the cycling process. If you've had it for a while, though, then it may be bacterial blooms from under-filtered water (filters used for turtle tanks should be rated for 2-3 times the tank's capacity--i.e., a 40 gallon tank should have a filter rated for an 80-120 gallon tank).

[blushh]

I've had the tank since I believe July , I've had issues with cloudiness since I've had them , I'm using an aqueon 75+ gallon filter at the top of the tank for now our Petco isn't the best at stocking and we needed something quick since our last filter stopped working . the temp of the tank has stayed at 75 degrees .

[blushh]

I've been trying to find a canister filter that isn't outrageously priced since I've been told they're the best .

[Jeremiah]

It's possible that using all those chemicals is throwing off your water. What kind of filter is your Aqueon? Is it a hang-on type? Sounds like you're in need of a better filter sooner rather than later, so instead of waiting for a canister you might want to Google instructions for how to make a "Wendy"/Skippy filter out of a 5 gallon bucket. Many people have had great results with them, and it's a far cheaper solution than a canister if you're in a bind. The most expensive piece of equipment would be your pump. Even though you live a good way out of the city, it may be worth your time to drive in and buy the supplies--if you do it right, you should only need one trip.

Also, if you have the space and resources, you may want to consider getting a second tank for one of the turtles. Two RES in a 65 gallon tank without a canister sounds like a substantial bio-load, so splitting them up should keep your water cleaner for longer periods of time. It would also avoid any potential aggression issues.

[blushh]

I have the one that hangs on the side , I have another tank that's a 45 gallon , would that be suitable for one ? Ive been on the hunt for a larger tank for months now with no luck . I'll go ahead and order a larger filter . I'll try to get pictures of the filter and tank . would the emperor penguin filter for 90 gallons be good ?

[Jeremiah]

A 45 gallon tank is suitable for a 4.5" turtle. However, if that's the only thing you have available right now then it will be okay. In my opinion, space is secondary to water quality. You can try the 90-gallon filter, but the problem with HOB's is that they practically require a full tank to work properly/quietly (Unless you have an ATBA, that would be a problem because the turtle will still need a basking area). At this point, I think it would be a wiser route to make the filter I described previously so that you can save the money that you would have spent buying the HOB, and wait until you can order a canister online.

[blushh]

Their tank is full , they have a basking dock that they're always on .

[Jeremiah]

If you really want to try the HOB, then I'm sure it wouldn't hurt to test it out. As long as you continue with regular PWC's and make sure the turtles don't escape!

[blushh]

I haven't had them try to escape yet lol they still have a good distance at the top to reach , theyre more concerned about being lazy and relaxing under their lights .