Fun and educational pets, aquatic turtles can be prone to skin fungus. If left untreated, the fungus may become lethal. Frequently examine your aquatic turtles skin for signs of skin fungus. Consult a veterinarian who specializes in turtles if you suspect skin fungus or other health issues.
Fuzzy white or gray patches on your turtles skin may indicate fungal infection. Other symptoms can be flaking, peeling, blisters or the presence of a cheeselike substance on his skin. Normal skin shedding doesnt produce white patches, redness or swelling. Skin fungus is often caused by poor water quality or an inadequate basking area.
Red eared sliders are one of the most popular pet turtles. They are relatively easy to care for and have delightful personalities. However like all pets they can develop health issues. One common problem is fungal infections. As a responsible red eared slider owner, it’s important to understand these fungal infections so you can properly treat and prevent them.
What Is a Red Eared Slider Fungal Infection?
A fungal infection occurs when fungus grows abnormally on a turtle’s skin or shell. This fungus often appears as raised green or white/yellow patches. The fungus thrives in dirty, damp environments. Poor water quality inadequate lighting low basking temperatures, and a weak immune system can all increase a turtle’s risk of fungal growth.
Fungal infections are not only unsightly, but they can irritate the turtle and even become systemic if left untreated Therefore, it’s crucial to address these infections promptly
Identifying a Fungal Infection
The first step is learning how to identify a fungal infection. Here are the two main symptoms to look for:
- Raised, green patches on the skin or shell
- White or yellow fuzzy/soft patches on the skin or shell
These abnormal patches often have a “fuzzy” texture and appear in clusters. They can develop anywhere, but commonly occur on the turtle’s shell, legs, neck, and head.
It’s also important to distinguish fungal growth from normal shedding. Shedding can temporarily leave white patches, but these flakes come off easily. Fungal patches are difficult to brush or wipe away. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to treat the area as fungal just to be safe.
Causes & Risk Factors
What allows fungus to take hold in the first place? Here are the most common causes of red eared slider fungal infections:
Dirty Habitat: A filthy habitat laden with waste, uneaten food, and other organic matter fosters fungal growth. Make sure to clean the tank weekly and disinfect decor/equipment regularly.
Poor Water Quality: Stagnant, untreated water encourages fungal blooms. Clean the water frequently and use a high-quality filtration system.
Low Basking Temperatures: Warm, dry basking areas help discourage fungus. Make sure your heat lamp is strong enough to maintain a 85-95°F basking zone.
Lack of UVB: UVB light supports the turtle’s immune function. Be sure to use a UVB bulb specifically designed for turtles.
Weak Immune System: Turtles with compromised immune systems are more prone to fungal infections. Ensure proper nutrition, temperatures, lighting, and hygiene.
New Tankmates: Unquarantined new tankmates can introduce fungus. Always quarantine new turtles for at least 30 days before introducing them.
By minimizing these risk factors, you lower the chances of your turtle developing a stubborn fungal infection.
Treating Fungal Infections at Home
If you do notice a fungal infection starting, there are several at-home treatment options:
Increase Temperatures: Boost the basking temperature 5-10°F to discourage fungal growth.
Salt Water Soaks: Soak the turtle in 1⁄4 cup of sea salt per gallon of water for 30 minutes daily. Gently scrub affected areas.
Betadine: Apply diluted betadine solution to fungal patches after soaks using a Q-tip. Rinse before returning to tank.
Anti-fungal Sprays: Purchase over-the-counter anti-fungal sprays formulated for reptiles. Spray turtle after soak/scrubbing.
Dry Docking: Allow the turtle to sit dry for 1-2 hours per day to discourage fungal growth. Provide access to fresh water every 30 minutes.
With persistent treatment, mild fungal infections often resolve within 2-3 weeks. If there is no improvement within 10 days, however, veterinary assistance is advised.
Preventing Fungal Infections
While fungal infections can’t always be prevented, you can take steps to reduce their likelihood:
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Quarantine newcomers for at least 30 days before introducing them to the main tank.
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Clean the tank thoroughly each week and disinfect all decor/equipment monthly.
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Maintain excellent filtration to prevent waste buildup.
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Test water parameters like pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates weekly and correct any issues.
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Increase water movement using powerheads, air stones, etc. to disrupt fungal growth.
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Ensure proper lighting/heating including UVB and a warm basking zone.
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Provide a nutritionally balanced and calcium-rich diet to support immunity.
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Inspect your turtle’s skin/shell closely each day for any abnormalities.
By optimizing husbandry and hygiene, you give your turtle the best chance at avoiding fungal infections altogether. Be vigilant for symptoms and prepared to take action at the first signs of fungal growth. With proper treatment, your beloved slider can make a full recovery.
Turtle Soak and Topical Treatment
Remove your infected turtle from his tank and gently wash him with warm water, scrubbing his shell with a soft toothbrush. Soak him in a commercial antifungal solution for turtles, or prepare a solution of 1 part povidone iodine to 100 parts water. Soak your pet in enough solution to just cover his shell for 15 minutes, daily until all signs of the fungus are gone. After allowing your turtle to dry, apply a thin covering of antibiotic ointment containing betadine to the fungal patches.
A few salt baths may be all your turtle needs if you detect the fungus in its early stages. Make a solution of 2 tablespoons salt in a gallon of water at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Soak your pet, just covering his shell, for 15 minutes, once or twice daily for four or five days. Allow him to dry completely after his soak, but dont leave him out of his tank for more than two hours.
How to Easily Fix Shell Rot in Turtles
FAQ
How do you treat a red eared slider fungal infection?
If possible , use a cotton swap to wipe off the white cottony fungus down to the bare irritated skin. Paint the area with iodine or Merthiolate until it dries. Dip the turtles in Repti Turtle Sulfa Dip and then apply the Repti Wound Healing Aid. Place a Dr. turtle Sulfa Block in the water as a preventative.
How do I tell if my turtle has a fungal infection?
Fungal disease may present as white or gray patches on the skin or shell and may be associated with pits in the shell. The shell should be hard, like bone.
What are the typical signs of a fungal infection?
- Asthma-like symptoms.
- Fatigue.
- Headache.
- Muscle aches or joint pain.
- Night sweats.
- Weight loss.
- Chest pain.
- Itchy or scaly skin.
How to remove fungal infection from an aquarium?
The most common treatment for fungus in freshwater fish is adding salt to their tank. Aquarium salt will need to be weighed out and added to your fish tank water for an immersive treatment.