Habitat - Indoor :: help with filter for my new turtles...I'm confused!!

[bam]

I'm new to the turtle stuff...I have 2 baby RES in a 10 gallon tank that has the built in steps that go up to the basking area...I put in a "whisper-type" filter that I got at Wal Mart...it has the lift out carbon filled filter. It seems to get dirty fairly quickly, so I'd like to go to a bigger filter. Can anyone give me suggestions as far as what I need to get...I'm so confused!!

Thanks!!

[N4784N R4613]

Most filters are rated for fish. Turtles are much more dirty(more poo, shedding, ect ect). Generally you want to triple the ratings on most filter(say you have a ten gallon tank you would want to get a 30 gallon filter).

All filters are going to get dirty relatively quickly, so it is always nice to get an easy to clean filter.

A nice easy to clean filter that I have had for over three mouths is the Zoo Meds Turtle Clean 318 filter. It has worked fine for my tank and not only dose it have a big foam pad, but it also has two compartments that can hold small amounts of custom media(I use carbon and bio).

You can also try the Turtle Clean 501 Canister Filter for practice with canister filters that you will most likely have to use in the future.

Here is the link to both of the filters above...
http://www.zoomed.com/html/filters.php

[missibsu]

Something that you want to consider before investing in a larger filter...the 10 gallon tank is not going to last very long. Rule of thumb is 10 gallons of water per inch of shell length. Add to that any prospective growth and you are looking at a much larger tank. You might as well go ahead and get a filter that is going to meet your needs.

[bam]

I know nothing about filters...can they help me at Petsmart? Do you have any suggestions? thanks!!

[SpotsMama]

Here's a thread on a type of filter a lot of turtle people use. I use it and love it. These are canister type filters so are to be used with larger tanks. I believe at 50 or 60 gallons and up you should be looking at a canister. If you're going to be upgrading your tank soon this is a good one. Some of the more experienced turtle people can comment on it.

You might find a knowledgable person at PetSmart but it's not likely. The people on this forum have been the best sources for me. I think a good herp vet is also a great source.

http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11