Turtles

[orandawhisperer]

Noticed a friends turtle likes to eat toad tadpoles. Would this be a good addition to our pond or would it prey on baby or adult fish? We are only looking for a small one. What kind would be best? Would this dirty the water a lot?

Thanks.

 

[addy1]

I have read they dirty the water, but if you have good filtration you should be fine. I don't know what kind would be best, and I am sure if it can catch the fry or find the eggs it will eat them.

 

[HARO]

Having kept turtles for many years and now the provider for four Red-eared Sliders the size of dinner plates, I can honestly say that I wouldn't recommend keeping turtles with fish unless the fish are on the menu. Even very small turtles will shred the fins of your fish, which can lead to secondary infections. Keep the turtle in a tank of its own and net out a few tadpoles to add to its diet once a day. And by the way, turtles can often be had free from people who tire of their "exotic" pets. John

 

[boxercrazy]

I have a painted turtle around 4in, he has always been in a tank with fish, never lost one fish to him. I have excellent filtration, keep everyone well fed and have a very lively tank....Working on a small pond so "Willie" can go outside for the summer... :razz:

 

[orandawhisperer]

Thanks, I think we will not get a turtle due to the reasons you guys listed.