Red-eared Slider
Aquatic turtle recognizable by the red patch behind its eye, one of the most common pet turtles worldwide.
Origin & history
Native to the southeastern USA and northeastern Mexico; exported en masse as a pet starting in the 1970s, now classified as an invasive species in many countries due to released animals.
Care
Needs a large aquaterrarium with a strong filter, a dry basking area, and a UVB lamp. Test and change water quality regularly.
Ideal environment
Needs plenty of swimming space (min. 400 liters per animal) and a dry, heated basking area. Must not be released into the wild in Switzerland.
Feeding
Omnivorous: special turtle food, aquatic plants, and occasionally small amounts of fish or insects.
Health
Prone to shell rot and respiratory infections from poor water quality or water that's too cold. Can live over 30 years and grow quite large - plan housing carefully.