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Can red-eared sliders drown?

2026-01-16 12:15:30 · · #1

Red-eared sliders can drown because they breathe with lungs and cannot stay underwater for too long; they need to surface for air periodically. The tank for red-eared sliders should not be filled with too much water so they can easily reach the surface to breathe. You can also add some rocks or artificial hills to help them reach the surface quickly. Keepers should also remember to change the water regularly.

Brazilian turtles will drown

Red-eared sliders are amphibians that breathe with lungs, so they will suffocate if left submerged in water for an extended period. However, if the water is very deep, it will take them a long time to surface for air, and if they become exhausted, they will choke on water and die. Prolonged exposure to deep water can also lead to suffocation.

If you want to keep a red-eared slider turtle, be careful not to fill the tank with too much water. Although deeper water may look more aesthetically pleasing, it could lead to the turtle's death. You should place some artificial rocks or stones in the tank so the turtle can quickly swim to the surface to breathe.

When feeding red-eared sliders, it's essential to change the water frequently. Although they are small, they eat a lot, and their excrement will dirty the water. It's best to change the water once a day after the turtles have eaten. You can use mineral water directly, but if using tap water, be sure to let it settle for 2-3 days before using it.

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