i just got 2 cute little hatchlings but one seems to be bigger then the other, i dont know what thats about, anyways i was goona put some underwater heaters in the tank and i wanted to know how watts is good for a 30 gallon tank and if i should put 2 heaters?
One heater, preferably positioned relatively near the filter output.
Allow 3-5 watts per gallon of water. I allow 5 watts per gallon. For a 30-gallon tank, depending on the brand, you could use a 100 or a 150-watt heater. The box will tell you how many gallons the heater is good for.
"You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed." -Antoine de Saint Exupery-
im sorry but i forgot to ask about lighting and i dont want to make another thread so ill just write it here and hope someone response, i know i need a uvb and uva, but what i want to know is how watts for each bulb and how close it should be to the basking dock?
You need two bulbs. Both should be positioned over the basking platform.
1. The heat bulb. This is what entices the turtle to bask. You can use a regular household incandescent bulb for this. I think some people use 75 watt bulbs but there's no hard fast rule. The distance from the basking platform depends on how close it needs to be to generate the right temp. The basking temp should be around 88 to 90 degrees fahrenheit (some turtles like it hotter). You have to measure the temp with a thermometer - you can't tell by feel what it is. Experiment with raising and lowering the bulb until you get the right temp on the basking platform. Then, you may need to raise or lower it some to find the perfect temp that your turtle likes best.
2. The UVB bulb (also provides UVA). It will be fluorescent and it's purpose is to enable your turtle's body to use the calcium he eats for his bones and shell. You have a choice of a tube fluorescent or a compact fluorescent type, depending on your fixture. An example of a good tube fluorescents is a Reptisun 5.0 or 10.0 bulb. An example of a good compact fluorescent is a Repti Glo 26 watt 5.0 bulb. Stay away from a bulb that provides less than 5% UVB as it would be too weak. These bulbs can be pretty pricey. If you shop around on-line you can usually save some money. For distance from the basking area - follow the directions on the packaging.
Posted: Sat Sep 15, 2007 4:17 pm underwater heating just a few questions