Feeding and Nutrition :: pyramiding

[DavidY]

Marisa, isn't that what happens with pyramiding too?

[stray_647]

I see remenants of scutes in the tank now and then. I Know that both my turts bask everyday, usually taking turns. I'll probably pay more atention to see if they are shedding.

[scripta_elegans]

I think it looks like retained scutes to me as well. I don't really see pyramiding as I have seen it pictured on other turtles.

[kmichael55]

question- what is the difference between pyramiding and retained scutes? I thought that that's what pyramiding was?

[scripta_elegans]

Pyramiding is when the scutes become misshapen because of excessive protein in the diet. The scutes become individually misshapen and raised like little pyramids. Retained scutes generally look as if they have partially shed, but are still connected to the shell longer than they should be. Pyramiding can certainly contribute to retaining scutes, but it isn't the only cause. It can also be that the turtle can't dry off entirely, or doesn't bask enough, or many other things.

[stray_647]

I've been doing some reading about retained scutes. I've read that you could help them along by using a blunt knife to help peel the top layer of the shell that looks abnormal. I don't think that is really sound advice for amateur pet owners. What would be the next best step for me to help these guys shed their scutes easier? I know that each of them bask for several hours everyday. I am inlined to watch and wait because neither of them have shown any health problems

[DavidY]

Yea I wouldn't pry the scutes off. That could damage the turtle's shell and expose it to infections.

[scripta_elegans]

If their shells have only looked like this for a little while, they may shed them off soon. If they have been on there for a really long time, or they appear to be getting infected that's when you need to see a herp vet. I would advise strongly against pulling off scutes with a butter knife. That's got bad news written all over it.