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My turtle's shell looks split. Is her tank too small? Does she need UVB?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female

I am not sure of my turtles age. I have had her for 3 yrs. Dosen't seem to be growing and I'm concerned about the underneath shell. Looks like it is splitting. She is in a 10 gal tank always by the window for sun. Is the tank to small? She eats well, super worms, tomatoes, grapes and strawberries some lettuce.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 3rd, 2018

That hinge on her plastron (bottom shell) is normal. It is supposed to appear "split". That allows her to close up securely when she retracts her head. These turtles do not get as big as other species, but a 10 gallon tank is too small. She also needs a UVB light source. Windows will block most of the sun's beneficial rays. You can find a UVB light source in most pet stores. A popular brand is the ZooMed ReptiSun light. They are good eaters, eating a wide variety of animal protein, plant matter and commercial diets. The link below leads to a care sheet providing additional information. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Three-toed-Box-Turtle-Care-and-Information/

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