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I need a new setup for my RES, Bowser. She is about 4 inches now but I want something large enough to last awhile and allow her to grow. I've been looking into some 100+ gallon tanks on craigslist, but am also looking into alternatives to tanks, but we dont have a TON of space so I cant get too crazy. I've seen some "turtle tables" (mostly used for tortoises, but I've read about some more aquatic adaptations as well).

Can't get this elaborate, but this is the best photo I could find to explain the general idea of what I'm looking to do: http://www.reptilechannel.com/images/tu ... -1-500.jpg
http://www.reptilechannel.com/images/tu ... -5-500.jpg

I'd like to maybe use a bookcase or shelf laid on it back, with shelves removed and then use plexiglass/pond liner or something to make it waterproof. Dont really know where to even start on this. Is it a good idea or should I just stick with a tank? Anyone have any creative ideas/adjustments? Where could I get materials/do this for cheap? Do you think this is a good idea for a RES?

Any insight or advice would be greatly appreciated.

I wouldn't use a bookcase or shelf, since those are probably particle board and not too strong. You also won't get much height out of them. You can get solid wood, which would probably be roughly the same cost or cheaper.

I guess what's really important are the dimensions and layout you want to use... that would determine the materials you can use.

look into stock tanks, they're made to hold large amounts of water and are much much cheaper than aquariums

Yes, consider a stock tank.

I would not suggest that kind of set-up for a slider.That looks more like a wood turtle set-up, or a less aquatic species.