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Hi. I'm getting a 120 gallon home for my RES this weekend and was trying to decide between a 48" x 24" x 24" rectangular tank and a 36" x 36" x 22" square tank. I've read a bit about surface area being important and that you want a more square less slender habitat. I'm worried that the 36" square shape might not allow a good length for the turtle to swim and be too boxy/small for a full grown 10"-12" RES. On the other hand Leo tend's to float and paddle a lot more than he swims. Leo is only 4.5" carapace length right now, but I'm hoping to find him a home that will last for a few years. I also plan to do an above tank basking area. Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

I'd go with the longer rectangular tank myself to give him more swimming room. I have a 60x18x20something 125 gallon and my turtle has all the space in the world to swim it seems. He loves it. I also have an above the tank basking area so I could fill the tank full love the setup.

If Leo is male, he won't get that big. 120 gallons will be perfect for the rest of his life. I'd go with the more retangular one, myself, giving more turning around room.

Swimming area is nearly identical, so I would go for the rectangular. It will be easier to get equipment if you need it. It will also probably be easier to find space for it as well.

Thanks for the recommendations. I took them to heart and got the rectangular tank. It's an old 120g Oceanic tank with thick glass. One of the previous owners put silicone all over the thing, even around the top trim, and the silicone is kinda brittle so I'm resealing it. I'll post pictures next week when I get it up and running.

Sounds good! Resealing a 100+ gallon tank isn't fun, but it's not too bad if you take your time.