Habitat - Indoor :: A couple of questions....

[Nin10doGC]

I currently have a crude basking spot, some rocks from my driveway (washed off and large, but jagged, one of my main concerns) and a big flat rock from the pet store. Anyway, I'm a fan of sculpting and a basking spot made of clay would be great. They have puffed clay that floats in water, but my only concern is, is clay toxic and wash off in water, and are acrylics safe to use? I am planning on using sculpey brand clay and craftsmart acrylic paints if that makes a difference.

(Just read the acrylic labels and they say non-toxic.... not sure about clay or a glaze, although a glaze is optional and only if it is safe.)

Also, where do you guys get your river rocks? I'm having a hard time finding a reputable source for a good price.

Does it hurt to have a filter that is of a higher capacity than 3 times the actual size? Reason is for upgrades later on, and the cost of selling it and then buying another filter. What filter do you recommend that isn't too expensive but works just as well.

Also, what heater do you recommend, and again is it ok if the recommended tank size for the heater is bigger than the actual tank?

Sorry for all the questions, it's just I would love for my turtle to be happy and healthy.

[Nin10doGC]

Also, is a 55 gallon tank for $40 a good deal? My turtle is currently 4 inches long and is in a ten gallon tank for the time being. I would appreciate a response!

[megcornell]

Yes, that tank is a great deal. If it's used, just make sure it doesn't have any leaks. Fill it up outside first to check.

As for the filter, you can get one rated higher, if it's submersible just make sure it isn't taking up too much space. The fluval submersibles are pretty big and in a smaller tank, they'd dominate the swim space. That being said, I like the fluval and rena brands of filters. I've had both, and both are durable and work well.

As for heaters, the best option is a stealth heater. They aren't glass so they're very well suited for a turtle tank, and they are very accurate and I find they last a long time, I have yet to replace one and I think my oldest one is two or three years now. The cheaper brands just aren't as accurate or durable so this is one area to spend a little more but really get your money's worth.

As for the clay, I've never made anything out of clay, so I have no idea about your concerns. If you're looking for a cheaper, more natural looking basking area, corkbark is a great alternative. A lot of people buy a piece and wedge it in their tanks.

[Nin10doGC]

Ok that sounds good. Thanks for the answers.

[Daniel3507]

the more filtration the better. i have a Fluval FX5 in my 55 gal tank and its for use in aquariums up to 400 gallons. i have 2 river rocks and i just found them at my grandparents house. just be sure to boil them for a awhile before you put them in the tank. as for the heater alot of people including myself use a visi-therm stealth heater and they work great. its fine if its rated for a bigger tank. you will just have to keep an eye on the water temp untill you get it dialed in. i dont know anything about clay or making a basking spot. i just bought one. haha
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/p ... catid=8809
$40 for a 55 gallon is a great deal. its rare to get a good size tank for less than $1 a gallon

[Nin10doGC]

Ok, thanks again for the comprehensive answers. I'll look to get those things when I can get the money.