When you are preparing for a turtle, there are many decisions you have to consider about buying equipment and supplies. For example, maybe you did not realize how expensive a turtle tank setup really is. Even though the set can be expensive, it’s important to know that there are always options to do something cheaper.
When it comes to the supplies for keeping a turtle, the most expensive item is almost always the tank itself. Most tanks range anywhere from $300 to over $1,000.
Now, you should not let this news deter you. These are referring to glass and acrylic tanks. While these tanks are certainly advantageous as you can see through and observe your turtle, there are much cheaper options.
The cheapest type of tank for a turtle is a plastic tub turtle tank.
Plastic Tub Turtle Tank
The plastic tub turtle tank is a great, economical way to care for a turtle. Below are some pictures of some great setups with plastic tubs.
As you can see from the photos above, a plastic tub can offer a great environment for turtles. Plastic tubs offer plenty of space for substrate, plants, ornaments, and even multiple turtles. Additionally, plastic tub turtle tanks are usually much easier to clean compared to glass turtle tanks.
Sometimes, a plastic tub is actually beneficial to a turtle because it offers them more space. As you probably know, a turtle’s space is extremely important to them. If they feel like their living space is too small, they get very stressed. This can trigger many health problems down the road.
Not giving a turtle enough living space is one of the most common faults of a turtle owner.
Where to buy a plastic tub turtle tank?
The best and cheapest place to buy a plastic tub turtle tank is on amazon. If your turtle has a shell length of 6 inches or more, I would recommend getting a tub that holds at least 50 gallons of water. This will give your turtle enough space to comfortably swim around. My favorite plastic turtle tub tank is the Rubbermaid Commercial Tub. You can click the photo below for more details.
Don’t let the small photo fool you. This tank holds 50 gallons of water and is almost 5 feet in length. The tub also has a drainage pipe which makes it easy if you ever need to change the tank’s water.
It is important to remember that your turtle must have a basking platform. This is an area where your turtle can climb out of the water and rest. You should have your basking lights directly pointed at the basking platform. One of the most common mistakes that turtle owners make is putting in a basking platform that is not easily accessible. If your turtle cannot easily climb onto the basking platform, they could eventually drown.
Advantages of having a plastic turtle tank tub
To finish things off, I am going to list of some of the main advantages of a plastic turtle tub vs. a glass turtle tub.
- It is usually hundreds of dollars cheaper than a glass tank
- It is more durable and you don’t have to worry about it cracking
- Glass aquariums take much longer to clean
- A turtle tub makes it easier for you to pick up your turtle
- Plastic tubs usually come in bigger sizes
- Plastic tubs weigh less and are therefore easier to move around
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