Softshell Turtle Black Rayed Health Information
These turtles get very large and will most likely need to be housed in some sort of outdoor enclosure with a pool area. Because of the soft nature of their shells, Black Rayed Softshell Turtles may be especially susceptible to scratches or biting injuries. They can also be very sensitive to water impurities, so their water should be very clean. Their enclosure should allow an area for soaking and swimming as well as a land area where these turtles can bask in a temperature of about 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Water temperature should be kept between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The water area should have a sandy substrate thick enough to allow the Black Rayed Softshell Turtle to bury itself if it feels the need to hide. They may be fed feeder fish and various invertebrates. Some may even accept cooked chicken or low fat dog food.
Breeding
Usually, Black Rayed Softshell Turtles deposit between 6 and 30 eggs in their nests. These will hatch after about 138 days, and Black Rayed Softshell Turtles may nest up to four times each year.
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