2026 Freshwater Turtle Guide: Species, Husbandry, and Nutrition

Have you ever pondered what renders freshwater turtles so captivating? These remarkable reptiles, belonging to the order Testudines, have established themselves as some of the most prominent ornamental species globally, owing to their uniqueness and longevity. However, far beyond being mere conventional pets, they are complex organisms adapted to lotic and lentic ecosystems that demand precise environmental engineering. Their successful maintenance requires an aquaterrarium equipped with robust biological filtration and UVB (5.0) lighting; furthermore, they necessitate a diet that transitions from carnivorous to omnivorous based on their physiological maturity—a critical factor in preventing metabolic bone diseases.

While they remain iconic figures in the aquarium hobby, their ownership entails significant responsibility. In various regions, they have been classified as invasive species following their irresponsible release into natural habitats. In this article, we will explore everything from water chemistry to the intricacies of their reproduction, providing you with the essential expertise on husbandry, nutrition, and diverse species to transform your aquarium into a thriving ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

• Long-Term Commitment: Most freshwater species exhibit exceptional longevity, often exceeding 30 to 50 years in captivity. Consequently, ownership necessitates life planning spanning decades, rather than mere years.
• Spatial Management: Habitat sizing must be preemptive. A standard of 100 liters is required for the primary specimen, with an additional 50 liters for each tank mate, utilizing technical formulas to calculate actual tank capacity.
• Biphasic Nutrition: The diet must evolve alongside the reptile’s aging process. Hatchlings require 80% animal protein, whereas adults must transition toward 60-80% plant matter to prevent shell pyramiding and renal failure.
• Critical Lighting (UVB): UVB radiation ($280\text{–}315 \text{ nm}$) is non-negotiable. Without it, Vitamin $D_3$ synthesis is impossible, inevitably leading to metabolic bone diseases (MBD).
• Biosecurity and Health: Since 75% to 95% of commercially available specimens may carry Salmonella, rigorous hygiene is mandatory. Furthermore, asymmetrical swimming or swollen eyes constitute medical emergencies.

Taxonomy and Diversity: What Defines a Freshwater Turtle?

Freshwater turtles, belonging to families such as Emydidae and Geoemydidae, represent a critical link in global aquatic biodiversity. Unlike their terrestrial relatives, these reptiles possess semi-webbed limbs that facilitate swimming and hydrodynamic shells adapted to the aquatic medium. As ectothermic organisms, their physiology depends directly on ambient temperature. Their distinguishing feature is the carapace, composed of bony plates covered by keratinous scutes or leathery skin, depending on the species. Current scientific reports indicate the existence of approximately 320 species distributed across lotic and lentic ecosystems on nearly every continent.

Primary Species and Market Trends

The choice of a species depends directly on the keeper’s space and commitment. While small-scale turtles reach 15 cm, giant species can exceed 40 cm in their adult stage. Regarding acquisition trends, Zhao et al. (2025) reported that current consumers show a marked preference for affordable, captive-bred specimens acquired through digital platforms with certified logistics. A relevant data point for aquaculture producers is the growing ethical awareness: buyers prioritize animals from stable wild populations and demand official certificates guaranteeing legal origin and specimen traceability.

Classification by Size and Requirements

Before acquiring a specimen, it is imperative to consider its life expectancy (30 to 50 years) and temperament. Below are the most common species in the aquarium hobby:

Gigantism and Specialized Species

Fascinating varieties exist, such as the Pig-Nosed Turtle (Carettochelys insculpta), known as the “freshwater leatherback” due to its soft skin; however, these are protected species of high technical complexity. Conversely, giants like the Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) require professional installations of thousands of liters and expert handling due to their powerful bite force.

Recommendation: Avoid selecting a turtle based solely on its hatchling size. A 3 cm juvenile specimen can reach 30 cm within a few years, necessitating a significant investment in infrastructure and maintenance.

Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

The Painted Turtle is one of the most emblematic and recurring freshwater species in the global aquarium hobby. Its natural distribution is extensive, ranging from southern Canada to northern Mexico, and spanning much of the United States. It primarily inhabits slow-moving aquatic ecosystems, such as lakes, wetlands, and rivers with soft, silty beds.

From a morphological standpoint, Chrysemys picta is distinguished by the vibrant red and black hues of its carapace. They are renowned for their dynamic behavior and active personalities, which consistently captivate enthusiasts. Upon reaching adulthood, these turtles attain an average straight-carapace length (SCL) of 25 cm. Taxonomically, this species is categorized into four geographical subspecies:

• Eastern Painted Turtle (C. picta picta)
• Midland Painted Turtle (C. picta marginata)
• Southern Painted Turtle (C. picta dorsalis)
• Western Painted Turtle (C. picta bellii)

Yellow-Bellied Slider Turtle (Trachemys scripta scripta)

The Yellow-Bellied Slider is among the most recognizable and popular species in the aquarium hobby, distinguished by the vibrant yellow striping along its neck and plastron. They are characterized as exceptionally active swimmers and exhibit notably gregarious behavior in captivity. Their natural habitat comprises slow-moving or stagnant water bodies with silty substrates and abundant submerged vegetation. For optimal husbandry, specialists recommend aquaterrariums or ponds with a minimum depth of 40 cm, enriched with aquatic flora such as Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), Azolla, duckweed, Elodea, and Anubias.

Parameters and Morphology

To ensure their well-being, water temperature should ideally oscillate between 25°C and 28°C (avoiding excessive heat spikes that could compromise their health). Regarding their development, Trachemys scripta can attain a carapace length of up to 40 cm. They exhibit clear sexual dimorphism: males possess longer, more slender tails, along with significantly more developed foreclaws compared to those of females.

Pig-Nosed Turtle (Carettochelys insculpta)

The Pig-Nosed Turtle (Carettochelys insculpta) is an exceptional and highly specialized species. According to research by Eisemberg et al. (2018), its natural distribution is restricted to the river basins of southern New Guinea (encompassing the regions of Papua, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea) and the rivers of Australia’s Northern Territory. Unlike other common species in the aquarium hobby, this turtle attains considerable dimensions. Studies conducted by Georges et al. (2008) document that adult specimens can weigh up to 22 kg and exhibit a carapace length of 57 cm, underscoring their requirement for high-volume enclosures.

Critical Maintenance Parameters

Given its biological sensitivity, the captive management of C. insculpta demands strict control over water quality. In accordance with reports by Georges et al. (2008), it is imperative to maintain the following parameters:

• Temperature: Must oscillate within a consistent warm range between 28°C and 33°C.
• Water Chemistry: Maintaining an elevated pH between 7.5 and 8.5 is essential—a determining factor in preserving the integrity of its leathery skin and overall health.

Map Turtle (Graptemys spp.)

Map Turtles (Graptemys spp.) owe their name to the intricate markings on their carapace, whose ornamental patterns evoke the appearance of topographic maps. Native to eastern North America, these species are recognized as exceptional swimmers; however, they present a technical challenge in the aquarium hobby due to their stringent water quality requirements. With a lifespan ranging from 15 to 30 years, these turtles naturally inhabit river backwaters, though they are also frequently found in swamps, oxbow lakes, and basins with abundant solar exposure.

Sexual Dimorphism and Morphology

Within this genus, the species G. gibbonsi presents one of the most pronounced cases of sexual dimorphism. Females are considerably more robust, reaching a maximum carapace length of 295 mm, whereas males maintain a more compact size, barely reaching 141 mm. This morphological disparity is a determining factor when planning the volume of the aquaterrarium.

Red-Eared Slider Turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans)

The Red-Eared Slider is arguably the most emblematic species in the aquarium hobby. While its appearance is similar to that of the Yellow-Bellied Slider, it is unequivocally distinguished by the vivid red patches located on the sides of its head. Its active and dynamic temperament has made it a preferred choice for enthusiasts worldwide. However, ownership represents a long-term commitment; according to Kruzer (2022), these specimens can attain a lifespan of 20 to 30 years in captivity, requiring spacious setups with a minimum capacity of 100 gallons (approx. 380 liters) of water to ensure their well-being.

Adaptability and Physiological Advantages

Recent studies highlight the biological capabilities that allow this species to excel in diverse environments:

• Thermal Resilience: According to Zhang et al. (2023), Trachemys scripta elegans exhibits superior heat tolerance and specific physiological advantages for thriving in warm climates.

• Metabolic Efficiency: Zhang et al. (2025) reported an extraordinary adaptive capacity in the face of high nutrient availability. The species can continuously increase its growth rate until it processes rations equivalent to 2.5% of its body mass, explaining its rapid development.

Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

The Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), also popularly known as the “serpentine turtle” or “lizard turtle,” is an iconic species renowned for its prehistoric appearance and powerful jaws. Due to its significant size and distinctive behavior, captive maintenance demands high-volume facilities and specialized handling.

Distribution and Habitat

Chelydra serpentina possesses one of the most extensive distributions in the Americas, ranging from southern Canada and the eastern United States to southeastern Mexico, and reaching regions of Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. Its versatility allows it to colonize diverse freshwater ecosystems, establishing itself primarily in swamps, ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.

Morphological Characteristics

This species can attain a carapace length of up to 49 cm, placing it among the most robust freshwater turtles. Its physical prowess, coupled with its adaptability, renders it an apex predator within its natural habitats, where it performs a fundamental ecological role.

Long-Necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis)

The Eastern Long-Necked Turtle, also known as the “snake-necked turtle,” is a fascinating species native to Australia. It is distinguished by its extremely elongated neck and a hydrodynamic body design that facilitates efficient swimming. In their natural habitat, they typically rest on the beds of watercourses, extending their necks to keep their heads at the surface.

Adaptability and Environmental Preferences

While it is less common in the conventional aquarium hobby due to its specific requirements, it represents a unique option for experienced aquarists. According to research by Sullivan et al. (2025), C. longicollis primarily inhabits freshwater systems (with salinity ranging from 1 to 11 ppt). However, the study highlights its remarkable resilience: specimens have been collected in hypersaline estuaries with levels up to 25 ppt. Despite this high tolerance, data demonstrate a strong preference for freshwater, as they actively avoid elevated salinity concentrations when given the choice.

Dietary Habits

This species is a specialized predator whose diet is primarily fish-based. Nevertheless, it possesses a versatile dietary regimen that includes:

• Aquatic insects.
• Amphibians and their larvae.
• Crustaceans and mollusks.

Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)

The Common Musk Turtle, also colloquially known as the “stinkpot,” is a species native to the eastern and central United States, as well as southeastern Canada. Its coloration ranges from brown and gray to black, often distinguished by yellow stripes that run laterally along its head and neck. It is a compact species, with an adult length between 100 and 127 mm and an average body mass of 100 g.

Specialized Morphology

Recent research by Leicht et al. (2025) has revealed unique details regarding its cranial anatomy. The chondrocranium of S. odoratus differs significantly from that of other turtles by possessing elongated and dorsally oriented nasal capsules. Its unique diagnostic features include:

• The presence of three dorsolateral foramina per nasal capsule.
• A notably enlarged crista parotica.
• An exceptionally thin and elongated posterior section of the palatoquadrate.

Longevity and Survival

Regarding its life cycle, Lowery (2023) notes that these turtles live an average of 15 to 19 years in the wild. Although mortality is high during the hatchling and juvenile stages, adults exhibit a high survival rate. While the wild longevity record stands at 28 years, specimens in controlled captive environments have been recorded reaching the astonishing age of 54.8 years.

What Do Freshwater Turtles Eat?

Nutrition is the fundamental pillar for the longevity of these reptiles. Freshwater turtles possess a voracious appetite and require a balanced, omnivorous diet that evolves according to their biological stage.

Biphasic Diet and Nutritional Requirements

To prevent pathologies such as renal failure or shell pyramiding, the diet must be adapted to the specimen’s physiological maturity:

• Hatchling Stage: Requires 80% animal protein to support rapid tissue and skeletal development.
• Adult Stage: Must transition toward 60% plant matter, reducing the protein load to protect the renal system.

A study by Guo et al. (2016) highlights the predatory capacity of species like Trachemys scripta elegans on the “Golden Apple Snail” (Pomacea canaliculata). This suggests that maintaining aquatic snails can provide a natural food source and essential environmental enrichment for your turtles.

Strategic Feeding Schedule by Life Stage

Prohibited Foods and Precautions

It is vital to avoid certain foods that can compromise the animal’s health:

• Spinach: Contains high levels of oxalates, which inhibit calcium absorption.
• Iceberg Lettuce: Lacks nutritional value and can induce diarrhea.
• Processed Meats: Excessive sodium and saturated fats are highly toxic.

Pro-Tip (The 5-Minute Rule): To maintain water quality, remove any leftovers not consumed within five minutes. This prevents organic decomposition and dangerous ammonia spikes within the aquaterrarium.

Reproduction of Freshwater Turtles

The reproduction of freshwater turtles is a complex biological process that combines sophisticated courtship behaviors with a critical dependence on environmental factors.

Sexual Dimorphism: Distinguishing Males from Females

Sex identification is possible through the analysis of secondary characteristics. In most aquatic species, males exhibit notably elongated foreclaws—essential for courtship—and more robust tails, with the cloaca situated beyond the margin of the carapace. Conversely, females typically possess a larger body size and shorter, more slender tails. Regarding behavior, while male courtship followed by female selection is the norm, Moldowan (2015) documented that in the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta), males may deploy coercive tactics, revealing a more aggressive reproductive dynamic than previously understood.

Nesting and Independence

Following mating, females migrate to terrestrial areas adjacent to the water to deposit their eggs in nesting chambers excavated in the soil. Once hatching is complete, the young demonstrate total biological independence; there is no parental care, necessitating that neonates venture toward the aquatic environment on their own.

Environmental Influence

A recent study by Caldwell et al. (2026) on the Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) underscores two critical windows of vulnerability: egg incubation and the first hibernation. Researchers concluded that the interaction between incubation temperature and the hibernation environment significantly determines:

• Locomotor Performance: Efficiency in the “righting reflex” (response time and latency), a decisive factor for survival against predators.
• Hatchling Phenotypes: Final carapace dimensions, tail length, and body mass.

Essential Care: Habitat Engineering and Welfare

The welfare of freshwater turtles strictly depends on the precision with which we replicate their natural environment. Maintaining these species requires constant attention to water chemistry and the quality of light radiation.

The Aquaterrarium: Dimensions and Filtration

A common error is sizing the tank based on a hatchling’s current dimensions. For correct forecasting, utilize the volume formula:

$\frac{\text{Length} \times \text{Width} \times \text{Height}}{1000} = \text{Capacity in Liters}$

Professional standards demand a minimum of 100 liters for the primary adult specimen, with an additional 50 liters for each tank mate. The filtration system (mechanical, chemical, and biological) must be high-flow, capable of processing three times the total volume per hour to neutralize ammonia derived from organic waste.

• Basking Area: A stable ramp or platform is indispensable, allowing the reptile to dry completely and thermoregulate under heat lamps.
• Substrate: The use of small gravel is discouraged. To prevent accidental ingestion causing intestinal obstructions, substrate elements must be considerably larger than the turtle’s mouth.

Lighting and Calcium Homeostasis

As Alarcon (2016) notes, UVB radiation (280–315 nm range) is non-negotiable. Without it, reptiles cannot synthesize Vitamin $D_3$, which is essential for metabolizing calcium and preventing Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). The use of mercury vapor bulbs or T5 5.0 tubes is recommended, positioned at a distance of 20–30 cm from the animal; ensure there is no glass in between, as glass blocks the ultraviolet spectrum.

Critical Parameters and Enrichment.

Pro-Tip (Environmental Enrichment): According to Bannister et al. (2021), the introduction of colored objects with olfactory stimuli significantly reduces escape behavior and captive stress in species such as Trachemys scripta.

Health and Preventive Medicine: Diagnosis and Common Pathologies

Freshwater turtles are experts at concealing symptoms of distress until a disease has significantly progressed. Consequently, preventive medicine and constant observation are the best tools for the responsible aquarist. Upon detecting any anomaly, it is imperative to consult a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals.

Primary Clinical Conditions

• Hypovitaminosis A: A diet lacking beta-carotene causes the breakdown of epithelial tissue, primarily affecting specimens under one year of age. The primary clinical symptom is palpebral edema (swollen eyes). According to Boro et al. (2022), treatment involves strategic supplementation and the inclusion of vitamin A-rich vegetables to restore ocular integrity.
• Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): This manifests through a soft, deformed carapace or spontaneous fractures. Its direct cause is a deficit in UVB radiation and an imbalanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in the diet.
• Respiratory Infections (RI): These are considered a medical emergency. If the turtle exhibits asymmetrical swimming (floating tilted to one side), nasal discharge, or wheezing while breathing, immediate attention is required. Generally, these infections result from cold water or direct drafts.

Advances in Parasitology and Sedation

Scientific research continues to provide critical data for clinical management:

• Endoparasites: Koch et al. (2026) revealed that acanthocephalans parasitize a quarter of North American species. In Trachemys scripta elegans, infection causes intestinal villi atrophy and excessive mucus production, detectable by observing helminth boluses in the feces.

• Clinical Management: For minor procedures, Arnett-Chinn et al. (2016) established that a Midazolam dose of $0.3\text{ mg/kg}$ is effective in achieving 80% sedation levels, ensuring safe and stress-free handling for the reptile.

Conservation and Biosecurity: Risks and Ethical Responsibility

Owning freshwater turtles transcends the individual care of the animal; it entails a profound responsibility toward public health and the balance of local ecosystems.

Public Health Risks: Salmonella

One of the primary risks associated with keeping these reptiles at home is their role as vectors for the bacterium Salmonella enterica. Various global studies underscore this concern:

• Kaibu et al. (2006): Documented cases of childhood salmonellosis in Japan directly resulting from contact with Trachemys scripta elegans specimens.
• Marin et al. (2016): Reported that 75% of turtles commercialized in aquariums in Valencia, Spain, carried Salmonella strains.
• Nurlifa (2018): Identified the presence of bacteria in 95% of aquatic turtles analyzed in markets in Surabaya, Indonesia. Consequently, it is imperative to maintain strict hygiene protocols, such as thorough handwashing after handling the specimen or performing tank maintenance.

The Ecological Challenge: Invasive Species

The irresponsible release of exotic turtles into natural water bodies is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. According to Sreeshma et al. (2026), Trachemys scripta elegans possesses an invasive capacity that generates a profound negative impact on native species through:

• Displacement and Competition: Outcompeting indigenous species for resources and basking sites.
• Alteration of Trophic Webs: Disrupting the balance of recipient ecosystems.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Potentially leading to local extinctions of vulnerable fauna.

Lifelong Commitment: Responsible ownership means the animal must remain under your care for its entire life or be surrendered to authorized rescue centers. Never release an exotic animal into the wild.

Protocol: Encounters with Wild Turtles

If you encounter a wild turtle in a risky situation (such as crossing a road), follow these guidelines:

• Avoid Distant Relocation: Turtles possess a strong sense of philopatry (home fidelity). Relocating them miles away from their original location can cause lethal stress and permanent disorientation.

• Respect Its Trajectory: Always move it toward the side of the road it was originally heading.

Conclusion

In essence, freshwater turtles are biologically fascinating organisms that demand a highly specialized standard of care. Their successful maintenance is not a product of chance, but rather of precise environmental engineering: from managing biological filtration and UVB radiation to the strategic transition of their diet based on physiological maturity.

The complexity of their reproductive processes and the vast diversity of available species—each with unique requirements for salinity, temperature, and space—render these reptiles exceptional subjects for both study and companionship. Nevertheless, integrating a turtle into one’s home must be a decision grounded in knowledge and ethical responsibility, always prioritizing biosecurity and the conservation of local ecosystems.

We invite you to continue delving into this captivating aquatic world. With proper preparation and respect for their biology, you can transform a simple aquarium into a vibrant ecosystem where these impressive reptiles can thrive for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Freshwater Turtles

Bibliographical References

Alarcon, E. (2016). Effects of Ultra-violet B on the behavior of red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans). Animal Behavior and Conservation, Hunter College City University of New York

Arnett-Chinn, E. R., Hadfield, C. A., & Clayton, L. A. (2016). Review of intramuscular midazolam for sedation in reptiles at the National Aquarium, Baltimore. Journal of herpetological medicine and surgery, 26(1-2), 59-63.

Boro, P. K., Yadav, S. N., & Ahmed, N. (2022). Diagnosis of hypovitaminosis A in a red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans) and its successful therapeutic management. Indian Journal of Animal Health, 2.

Bannister, C. C., Thomson, A. J., & Cuculescu-Santana, M. (2021). Can colored object enrichment reduce the escape behavior of captive freshwater turtles? (Vol. 40, No. 2, pp. 160-168).

Caldwell, M. F., Warner, D. A., & Wolak, M. E. 2026. Incubation and Overwintering Conditions Influence Righting Performance of Hatchling Turtles. Journal of Experimental Zoology Part A: Ecological and Integrative Physiology. https://doi.org/10.1002/jez.70065

Eisemberg, C., van Dijk, P.P., Georges, A. & Amepou, Y. 2018. Carettochelys insculpta. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T3898A2884984.
http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T3898A2884984.en

Georges, A., Doody, J. S., Eisemberg, C., Alacs, E. A., & Rose, M. (2008). Carettochelys insculpta Ramsay 1886 – pig-nosed turtle, Fly River turtle. En A. G. J. Rhodin, P. C. H. Pritchard, P. P. van Dijk, R. A. Saumure, K. A. Buhlmann, & J. B. Iverson (Eds.), Conservation biology of freshwater turtles and tortoises: A compilation project of the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (Chelonian Research Monographs No. 5, pp. 009.1-009.17). Chelonian Research Foundation. https://doi.org/10.3854/crm.5.009.insculpta.v1.2008

Guo, J., Zhang, C., Zhang, J. E., Xiang, Y., & Jiang, X. (2016). Predation and indirect interference effects of Trachemys scripta elegans on Pomacea canaliculata. Journal of South China Agricultural University, 37(6), 59-64.

Kaibu, H., Iida, K., Ueki, S., Ehara, H., Simasaki, Y., Anzai, H., … & Shirono, S. (2006). Salmonellosis of infants presumably originating from an infected turtle in Nagasaki, Japan. Japanese journal of infectious diseases, 59(4), 281.

Koch, R. W., Cino Ozuna, A. G., & Bolek, M. G. (2026). Histopathologic Evaluation, Ultrastructure, and Molecular Characterization of Acanthocephalan Infections in Freshwater Turtles. The Journal of Wildlife Diseases (published online ahead of print 2026). https://doi.org/10.7589/JWD-D-25-00081

Kruzer Adrienne. 2022. Red-Eared Slider: Species Profile – Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. The Spruce Pets.

Leicht, L., Zhang, Z., & Werneburg, I. (2025). Variation and development of the turtle chondrocranium, with a description of the common musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus, Kinosternidae, Cryptodira, Testudines). The Anatomical Record, 308(7), 1994-2037. https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.25211

Lowery, K. 2023. “Sternotherus odoratus” (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed February 25, 2026

Marin, C., Vega, S., & Marco-Jiménez, F. (2016). Tiny turtles purchased at pet stores are a potential high risk for Salmonella human infection in the Valencian Region, Eastern Spain. Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, 16(7), 455-460.

Moldowan, P. D. (2015). Sexual dimorphism and alternative reproductive tactics in the Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta (marginata) (Doctoral dissertation, Laurentian University of Sudbury).

Nurlifa, Rindi Mahda (2018) Total kandungan bakteri dan deteksi bakteri Salmonella sp. pada air akuarium pemeliharaan kura – kura air (Trachemys scripta elegans). Other thesis, Wijaya Kusuma Surabaya University.

Sreeshma, V., Monisha, V. & Roshnath, R. Evaluating pet trade and invasion risk of the red eared slider Trachemys scripta elegans in Kerala India. Discov Anim 3, 7 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44338-026-00162-6

Sullivan, K., Nordberg, E. J., Smith, K., & Bower, D. S. (2025). Water Quality Preferences of an Australian Freshwater Turtle. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 35(3), e70097. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.70097

Zhang, C., Xu, Y., Hua, Y., Li, P., Storey, K. B., & Zhang, W. (2023). Greater physiological resistance to heat may favour an invasive freshwater turtle, enabling it to outcompete native species in a changing climate. Freshwater Biology, 68(9), 1588-1601. https://doi.org/10.1111/fwb.14153

Zhang, C., Jiang, S., Liu, X., Zhong, S., & Zhang, W. (2025). Different growth responses to feed ration levels in two freshwater turtle juveniles, the Chinese three-keeled pond turtle Mauremys reevesii and the red-eared slider Trachemys scripta elegans. Aquaculture Reports, 43, 102931. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aqrep.2025.102931

Zhao, J., Chen, Z., Duan, B., Zheng, W., Yan Wan, A. K., Zhang, X., Li, L., & Lee, T. M. 2025. Hobbyist preferences for pet freshwater turtles. Conservation Biology, e70171. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.70171

Milthon Lujan

Editor at the digital magazine AquaHoy. He holds a degree in Aquaculture Biology from the National University of Santa (UNS) and a Master’s degree in Science and Innovation Management from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, with postgraduate diplomas in Business Innovation and Innovation Management. He possesses extensive experience in the aquaculture and fisheries sector, having led the Fisheries Innovation Unit of the National Program for Innovation in Fisheries and Aquaculture (PNIPA). He has served as a senior consultant in technology watch, an innovation project formulator and advisor, and a lecturer at UNS. He is a member of the Peruvian College of Biologists and was recognized by the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) in 2016 for his contribution to aquaculture.