Habitat - Indoor :: preformed pond liner

[jep5683]

Can I use a preformed pond liner in my apartment for my RES? She is big, about 8-9in. She has always lived in an outdoor pond. Trying to keep her, but I need all the equipment for her and I am afraid she will not be happy indoors. I don't think she would be happy in a tank. I thought a preformed pond would work better. Does anyone know if it will hold up holding water, but not being put in the ground? My turtles name is Moon Tiki, we call her Tiki. She lost her home when my mom lost HER home. Thanks

[steve]

Yes, you can build and support around a preformed pond. To be honest, most of those are a bit small, I'd just go for a stock tank. You can build around it or just add a basking area inside the tank.

[jep5683]

what do you mean by a stock tank? Like the ones they use with horses? I am wanting/having to put her in my "living room". How big are they? Thanks.

[jep5683]

I think I found the rubbermaid stock tanks online, they are not toxic to turtles? Thanks again

[steve]

Yes, horses and live stock. Many prefer Rubbermaid stock tanks.... big, thick plastic and a drain near the bottom. You'd probably want 100 gallons, but they have bigger ones as well.

[steve]

I've never seen a MSDS on them, but if they are for potable uses, they should be safe. A lot of people use them with koi as well.

[jep5683]

Steve, you are being so helpful !!! What kind of filter would you recommend? Do I have to use a cannister type? I am in an apartment and I am trying to keep it as simple as possible. The drain sounds great on the stock tank, but I don't think I will be able to use that for partial water changes being indoors. Any other suggestions you have, I would greatly appreciate them. Thanks again.

[steve]

Some people have complained about the drain leaking, so you will definitely want to seal it. A simple pump can aid in water changes. You don't have to use a canister. But your choices are:

internal - small, underpowered, takes up space in tank
hang-on - might need to cut or modify the tank for it to fit (not a real issue)
canister - you might need to elevate the tank a little

If you're going for a 100 or 150 gallon, I'd shoot for a canister. This will also reduce your water changes.

[jep5683]

thank you so much

[Kansasslider]

300 gallon indoor stock tank owner here. If if have any more questions I would be glad to help.

[jep5683]

I was looking at a 100 gal stock tank for inside. I am in an apartment and really afraid of leaking !!!! I am familiar with keeping this turtle outdoors, but not indoors. I was asking about filters, basking area etc. I am not sure she will be happy inside? She is about 10". How do you keep a large tank inside clean, even with a filter? We used to do partial water changes outside, how would I do that inside? I heard there was suction/vacuum type equipment for that. I know turtles are alot of work, but I need my set-up as simple as possible because it is indoors. Thanks so much for any advice.

[Kansasslider]

I'm going to be honest with you. It might not be what you want to hear but I would look into other options. Your turtle is large and was in an outdoor pond I don't think it would like a tiny tank. This is a 100 gallon tank with a 10" plate at the bottom. Not much room!

[jep5683]

I know, that has been my concern. I love her and want her, but I want her to be happy, healthy and safe too. Thank you for your honesty. What is the 10" plate?

I have a friend who is keeping her outdoors now. The pond is small for her, but atleast she is outdoors with sun. Any other suggestions, I am open to hear them.
Thank you.

[Kansasslider]

Its a dinner plate to show 10". I would keep her there if you can or maybe call a zoo in your area. I feel your loss.Sorry.

[zclark]

I would do a minimum 300 gallon stock tank. They are fairly good size for a RES.