Hi all. I recently took over the care of a RES, his size is about an inch. My nephew lost interest of the turtle after a week and gave it to me. He is currently living in those small plastic tanks with a few river pebbles. I've been studying the site and gaining more knowledge about the turtle. I formed the rocks into a hill so he has a spot to sun bask. As soon as I have a day off this week I will take a trip to the local pet stores to begin buying his new home. I'll start him with a 30 gallon tank. This should tie him up for a good yr or so, until I gather more funds and space for a 60+ gallon tank. Please understand that this turtle came into my care unexpectingly so I have to make ends meet somehow.
Ok, if you're still with me, I would like to know, what filter is efficient for a 30 gallon tank? Keeping in mind that he is only an inch, would I be able to go with some of the lower end canister models of Fuval or Rena?
Other things on my to buy list would be, a bask area, lighting (open for suggestions, please), heater, thermometer, and possibly some decor. I would also want some sort of stand and if I forgot something, please let me know. Also, do I want a top for the tank? Do they make tops with sockets for the lighting needed to care for turtles, or should I just go with a single fixture w/clip (mount) for the light.
Thanks.