Habitat - Indoor :: clear oily looking layer on water

[TippySebastian]

Hi all,

I have a 70 gallon tank with two male medium-sized four year old turtles (5-6 inches). They are both healthy and happy but for the past few months my husband and I have noticed a layer of what looks like a clear oily layer on top of the water. We use a canister filter and have changed it + the water multiple times and always notice that after a few days the slick is back. We use a water conditioner after we add new water. Does anyone know what this is, what causes it and if it is dangerous? It doesn't appear to have negatively affected the turtles in any way so far.


Thanks!

[Diamondbacks4Life]

Do you have anything breaking the water surface? Usually turtle pellets and not enough filtration will cause this layer to appear if nothing breaks the water surface.

[TippySebastian]

Diamondbacks-

They have a floating log that breaks the surface and the filter is supposedly strong enough for a larger tank but then I suppose having 2 turtles in it would make a difference. It's strange because we've had the set up a while and this just started a few months ago. Do you know if it is dangerous?

Thanks!

[Listen97]

Could it be something you fed them. I know mine will get a slightly oiled surface after certain foods.

[Ranger The Red Ear Slider]

Yeah some turtle pellets release a little bit of oil. When you see the turtle bite into the pellets and a little swirl of different colors come from it thats the oil that settles to the top of the water. Getting a spoon or something else to mix the water around here and there can break up the water and get rid of it.

[steve]

I think they are asking about surface agitation... a filter output, spay bar or air pump would do the job.

[kharados]

I agree with steve, Maybe you should try an air pump.