RES Questions

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Fire Eel
MFK Member
Aug 11, 2007
1,211
15
68
South East Michigan
I got a 5" male RES for Mother's Day, and had some questions on alternative housing. He's currently in a 10 gallon that I'm cleaning daily, because I have no $ for a 75-90 gallon aquarium, and the landlord is real touchy about "permanent" things added to the property, so no fence, let alone no pond... I was wondering what I could possibly house him in that would simulate a pond environment, but could be brought it for winter, or taken with me when I move? I was considering one of the rubberized stock tanks, lightweight so I can move it when it's empty (I have back and hip problems) but big enough that Chompers (my fiance named him) would be comfortable. And could I get away with a totebin until I find a decent stocktank? Also, with a stocking question, eventually I would like for him to have some companions; would 1 female be ok, or would a pair of ladies be safer/better? I know some animals need 2 females per male to prevent over harassment. Thank you in advance for any advice, Chompers and I appreciate it!
 
P.S. I haven't been able to find any solid answers on a lifespan for these guys, the Animal Planet page said 50-70 yrs, a caresheet said 15, a random Yahoo Answer I found said 25, but the person who said that, claimed to have a 36 yr old turtle... So I'm a little confused as to which number is actually right. Can someone give me a straight answer? Thanks again!
 
I actually considered it, but I didn't think it would be deep enough. he wouldn't have anywhere to go if his water got too hot, and his basking rock would have to be an island or he'd be able to climb out. I'm considering temporary quarters of a large rubbermaid tote with a land shelf made from coroplast. Maybe some duckweed in the water, if I'm feeling brave, maybe some larger water plants; basically build him his own indoor pond/watergarden! From what I've read, he'll graze on the plants though...
 
Large plastic tubs are a good choice for turtles, there are quite a few American keepers who use large Rubbermaid totes.

Red ears can live 40+ years, although I'm not sure what the current record is. A 15 year old slider is relatively young.

As for companions, I wouldn't attempt it. Male turtles will harass females, and unless you have a large pond to give them space to escape, females will become stressed. Turtles are solitary animals anyway, and will be fine alone :)

Best,
Paul
 
I'd like to get the 100 gal or the 110; but I still have to see how big that would be, since it'll have to go in the livingroom, and we're silly people who actually want to use the livingroom! lol Otherwise I'd just get the 300. -sigh- Someday.... a girl can dream....
 
They can live really long! My uncle has one that's 27 and he got it from a friend. The turtle is doing great! They can live 40-60 years if very well cared for. If cared for well then they can live 20-40 years. If not cared for well, they will live like 15 years tops. If its 5" it's still at a rapid growing stage so he might be stunted in a 10 gallon. So lookout

I'M ANDREW AND I'M A FISHAHOLIC
-Andrew
 
a tank size 60x24x? should be enough for a single adult res.
 
Someday I'd love to build an epic indoor pond or 2, with the 300 gal tanks! -drool-
 
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