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Hello all, I have two male turtles about 16 years old now that I had ever since they were babies! I've noticed some hypo pigmentation of their shell and I am wondering if it is shell rot. Please refer to the images below. Thank you!

Looks like it's just melanism. Pretty normal for male RES. Their red ears will become grayer and some of their stripes will become spots. Very helpful pics!

Hey Steve,

Thanks so much for your reply! I am glad it is not shell rot. I was really worried. I was not aware of melanism and looked it up - definitely can see it in my turtles now. Their skin as gotten darker with spots too. Makes them look dirty lol. Thought I'd share a cute photo as thanks

That is cute! I think he wants a chin rub

So both are kept together? They get along?