Are they in separate tanks now and you plan to upgrade to separate tanks? Because it is recommended 10 gallons per inch per turtle. So if you keep them together you will need at least an 80 gallon now, not to mention what they will need when full grown. RES can reach between 9-12 inches in length depending on sex when they are full grown. That means each would would need at least 90-120 gallons each.
The larger you can go now, the better off they will be and you will be in the long run. There are some good alternatives to glass tanks if that route is too expensive. Rubbermaid/Sterlite storage bins/containers from places like Wal-mart etc make great 'temporary' homes. They aren't made to hold water and will need to be replaced more frequently than glass tanks.
Stock tanks from a tractor supply/feed store are made to hold water and are cheaper in comparison for size than glass tanks. These are a really great alternative. At the Tractor Supply CO. near me they range between $70 - $125US for 100-150 gallons.
Remember the less water you have the more frequent water cleanings/changes will have to take place. It's nearly impossible to provide the appropriate water quality and healthy environment in a small tank such as ten gallons. You will need a filter rated for at least 3x's the tanks size for turtles. Turtles are a much messier animal than fish(which filters are rated for). So for example, ten gallons would need a filter rated for at least 30 gallons etc. This will help with the water quality as well.
Some people put the turtles in a separate container of water for the daily/every other day feeding to help keep waste out of the tank. Some turtles will eat like this but others don't take to it well.
So, any info at all would be great, thanks
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 2:13 pm Cleaning Their Tank