Scientific Name: Pelusios subniger

African Sideneck Turtles are hardy, primarily aquatic turtles found in the marshes, streams and ponds of Eastern Africa.

Maximum size: 8”

Lighting: Full spectrum fluorescent UV bulbs and a basking light are required.

Temperature range: 78°F –82F° with a basking area of 85°F

Food: Their diet consists of live fish, snails, crayfish, crickets, earthworms, aquatic plants and dark leafy greens.  Specialized pelleted foods for omnivorous aquatic turtles are also a good choice.

Water: Clean dechlorinated water with a depth of 5-8” is required.  Maintaining a pH of 6.5 will simulate their natural habitat.  This can be done by adding peat moss to the vivarium or through the use of pH buffers.

Housing/Habitat: An aquarium with sand or gravel substrate and a submersible heater to provide the proper temperature.  Landscape to provide basking and drying areas for the turtle.  A good filter is necessary to keep the water clean and decrease the frequency of required water changes.