Feeding and Nutrition :: Feeding in same tank?

[N4784N R4613]

I have two turtles that I feed in the same tank. One is smaller then the other, so I have been watching them when I feed them. I thought that the bigger one would bully the small one and eat all the food, BUT the smaller one is the one who gets most of the food. So is it ok to keep feeding them like this or do you think they feel rushed by each other? And if I am to feed them in separate tanks (or one in a blow and the other in the tank) which one should I take out to the bowl? The smaller more out going one? Or the bigger more shy one?

Thanks in advance,

Nathan Radle.

[jenaero]

Go ahead and start feeding them separately. It's important that they each get their fare share of food. I'd take out the bully and feed him separately. If a turtle is shy to begin with, it will feel more comfortable eating in it's own territory.

[missibsu]

I don't know how big your tank is, but I find that feeding in the same tank works if they have their own space. My tank is 75 gallons, and they each have their own corner. When they see the food container, they know where to go. If you don't object to a separate food container, then it is probably the better route...I just didn't want the hassle.

[N4784N R4613]

Ok, is it ok to feed him in a dry blow? or should I put a little bit of water in with him? and if so can I use untreated tap water? or take some out of the tank?

Thanks again,

Nathan Radle.

[missibsu]

Turtles cannot eat out of the water, so it is important to make sure they have water. You would be best to use water right out of the tank, that way you are sure that it is the right temp and all.

[N4784N R4613]

Ok. I will start today.

And do I have to give them some kind of calcium or is that optional?


Thanks allot,

Nathan Radle

[jenaero]

Calcium is a must. Get some cuttlebone (found in the bird section) and take the hard backing off before feeding it.

[N4784N R4613]

Ok, how often do I give it to them? And how big is it? Will they be able to eat the whole thing?

[jenaero]

Some people crush it up. I throw in half the bone at a time and replace it when it's gone.

[N4784N R4613]

Ok so it should always be there for them?

[slidin_sliders]

hi, i also have another good idea

at any pet store, if you look in the fish section, you can find feeding boxes in a good size. Feeding boxes are just floating plastic/foam squares about 3-4 inches long, that can keep food contained inside the square so it prevents food getting sucked up bye the filter. The turtle can just swim under and get the food. there are suction cups on the side to keep the box from floating away.

my idea is to but 2 of those a different color (ex. red and blue)

take the red on and set it in the tank along with the food. take one turtle out.
let the fisrt turtle feed off of the red one. now do the same with the other turtle except with the blue box.

try this for about 1 week and a half. and then put both boxes in with both turtles.

the turtles should already know which colored box to eat from so then they won't be obliged to eat from the other turtles box.

i have personally tried this with my 2 res's and it has been working well


i hope my advice is helpful to all of you