Soft-Shelled Turtle

Species Profile Scientific Name: Pelodiscus sinensis Common Name: Chinese Soft-shelled Turtle Adult Size: Males: 18–25 cm (7–10 inches) Females: Up to 33 cm (13 inches) Life Expectancy: 20–30 years in captivity (can live longer with excellent care) Habitat: Native to East Asia — found in China, Taiwan, Korea, Vietnam, and Japan. Inhabits rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes with soft, sandy or muddy bottoms for burrowing. Tank Requirements Minimum Tank Size: Juveniles: 100 liters (25+ gallons) Adults: 300+ liters (80+ gallons) with extra floor space Ideal Temperature: Water: 24–28°C (75–82°F) Basking area (optional but helpful): 30–32°C (86–90°F) pH Range: 6.5–7.5 Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (4–12 dGH) Temperament: Semi-aggressive and territorial; may bite when handled. Best kept alone. Not suitable for housing with other turtles or fish due to their aggressive feeding behavior and tendency to nip or attack. Diet & Nutrition Omnivorous: Yes, primarily carnivorous. Protein Sources: Insects, worms, fish, shrimp, snails, and commercial turtle pellets Vegetation: Occasionally consumes aquatic plants, leafy greens, and fruits Feeding Tip: Feed in a separate container to help maintain water quality Appearance Shell: Flat, leathery, and soft to the touch, lacking the hard scutes of most turtles. Olive to brown coloration with black spots or blotches. Skin: Smooth and olive to grayish, with a long neck and an elongated, snorkel-like snout for breathing while submerged Limbs: Strong, webbed feet for swimming and digging Distinctive Features Soft, Leathery Shell: More flexible and prone to injury than hard-shelled turtles Snorkel-like Nose: Allows it to breathe while staying nearly fully submerged Burrowing Behavior: Likes to bury itself in soft substrate, often leaving only the eyes and snout exposed Excellent Swimmer: Requires deep water and a soft-bottomed tank Fast and Agile: Surprisingly quick both in and out of water; can be aggressive when threatened