Types Of Painted Turtles – Your Complete Subspecies & Care Guide

Written ByHoward Parker

Have you ever seen a flash of red and yellow glide effortlessly through the water and thought, “I need that in my life”? If so, you’ve likely encountered the stunning Painted Turtle. These living jewels are among the most widespread and recognizable turtles in North America, and for good reason! Their vibrant colors and active personalities make them captivating pets.

But diving into turtle ownership can feel a bit overwhelming. You might be wondering which of the different types of painted turtles is right for you, or what it truly takes to create a habitat where they can thrive. Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

Imagine a beautifully aquascaped tank in your home, where a healthy, happy turtle basks under a warm light, showing off its incredible shell patterns. This is completely achievable! We promise this guide will give you the confidence and knowledge to make that vision a reality.

In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the four distinct subspecies, break down their ideal habitat setup, and provide actionable tips for their long-term care. Let’s get started on your turtle-keeping journey!

What Makes Painted Turtles Such Amazing Pets?

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s talk about the why. What are the benefits of choosing a painted turtle? For many aquarium enthusiasts, they represent a perfect step into the world of aquatic reptiles.

First, they are incredibly hardy. When provided with the right environment, painted turtles are resilient and can live for decades. This makes them a rewarding long-term companion. Unlike some more delicate species, they are relatively forgiving for beginners who are still learning.

They are also one of the most active and engaging turtle species you can own. You’ll get to watch them swim, forage for food, and bask contently on their docks. Their curious nature is a constant source of entertainment and a wonderful way to bring a piece of the natural world into your home.

A Closer Look: The Four Main Types of Painted Turtles

The Painted Turtle, or Chrysemys picta, isn’t just one turtle—it’s a species with four distinct subspecies, each with its own unique flair. Understanding their subtle differences is the first step in our types of painted turtles guide. While their core care is similar, knowing which one you have can help you appreciate its specific beauty.

The Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta picta)

This is often the “classic” painted turtle that comes to mind. Found along the East Coast of the United States, they are known for their clean, simple beauty. They are a fantastic choice for first-time turtle keepers.

  • Size: Typically 5 to 7 inches.
  • Distinguishing Feature: The segments on its top shell (called scutes) are neatly aligned in straight rows across its back. Its bottom shell, or plastron, is a solid, bright yellow or orange with no markings.
  • Pro Tip: They thrive in setups that mimic slow-moving ponds, with plenty of plants (real or artificial) to explore.

The Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata)

As its name suggests, the Midland Painted Turtle’s range bridges the gap between the Eastern and Western subspecies. They share traits from both, creating a beautiful intermediate look.

  • Size: Around 5 to 8 inches.
  • Distinguishing Feature: Unlike the Eastern, its scutes are staggered, not aligned. The key identifier is a dark, shadowy blotch in the center of its yellowish-orange plastron. This marking can vary in size and shape.
  • Pro Tip: These turtles are often found in marshes and appreciate a habitat with lots of hiding spots and submerged logs.

The Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)

The Western Painted Turtle is the showstopper of the group! They are the largest of the four subspecies and boast the most intricate and vibrant coloration, especially on their plastron.

  • Size: Can reach up to 10 inches, making them the largest of the group.
  • Distinguishing Feature: Their plastron is a work of art, featuring a large, complex pattern of red, orange, and yellow that branches out to the edges.
  • Pro Tip: Because of their larger size, you must plan for a bigger tank. A 75-gallon is a good start for an adult, but a 125-gallon is even better.

The Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta dorsalis)

The smallest and arguably one of the most striking, the Southern Painted Turtle is a gem from the Mississippi River Valley. Its petite size makes it a popular choice, but don’t let that fool you—it still needs plenty of space to swim.

  • Size: The smallest, usually maxing out around 4 to 6 inches.
  • Distinguishing Feature: A bold, can’t-miss-it red, orange, or yellow stripe running straight down the center of its carapace (top shell). Its plastron is typically a plain, unmarked tan or yellow.
  • Pro Tip: Their smaller size makes them a bit more manageable for keepers with slightly less space, but a 40-gallon breeder tank is still the recommended minimum for an adult.

Setting Up the Perfect Painted Turtle Habitat

Now for the fun part: creating a home for your new friend! This section covers how to types of painted turtles and their setup. Getting the habitat right from the start is the single most important factor for a healthy turtle. These are the types of painted turtles best practices that every owner should follow.

The Tank: Bigger is Always Better

The golden rule for turtles is 10 gallons of water per inch of shell length. While a hatchling can start in a 20 or 40-gallon tank, they grow quickly. It’s often more economical to start with a larger tank, like a 75-gallon, to avoid frequent upgrades.

Water Quality and Filtration

Turtles are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. A weak filter just won’t cut it. Your best bet is a powerful canister filter rated for at least double the size of your tank. For a 75-gallon tank, get a filter rated for 150-200 gallons. This is non-negotiable for keeping the water clean and your turtle healthy.

The All-Important Basking Area

Painted turtles are semi-aquatic, meaning they need both water to swim in and a place to get completely dry and bask. You can buy floating docks or build your own. This area needs two crucial things:

  1. A Heat Lamp: This creates a warm spot for your turtle to regulate its body temperature. The surface temperature of the basking dock should be around 90-95°F (32-35°C).
  2. A UVB Light: This is just as important as heat! UVB light allows your turtle to produce vitamin D3, which is essential for metabolizing calcium. Without it, they will develop serious health issues. Use a high-quality UVB bulb and replace it every 6-12 months as directed by the manufacturer.

Substrate and Decorations

Many keepers opt for a bare-bottom tank for easy cleaning. If you prefer substrate, use large, smooth river rocks that are too big for the turtle to swallow. Avoid small gravel, as turtles can ingest it, leading to fatal impaction. Driftwood and sturdy artificial plants can provide enrichment and hiding spots.

A Healthy Diet: The Painted Turtle Care Guide

Providing a balanced diet is a core part of any good types of painted turtles care guide. Painted turtles are omnivores, and their dietary needs change as they age. Young turtles are more carnivorous, while adults eat more plant matter.

What to Feed Your Painted Turtle

Variety is key! A healthy diet should include:

  • High-Quality Pellets: This should be the staple of their diet. Look for brands specifically formulated for aquatic turtles.
  • Leafy Greens: Offer greens like red leaf lettuce, romaine, and dandelion greens regularly. Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it has no nutritional value.
  • Occasional Protein: As a treat, you can offer earthworms, crickets, ghost shrimp, or small pieces of cooked, unseasoned chicken or fish.
  • Veggies: Shredded carrots or squash can also be offered occasionally.

How Often to Feed

Overfeeding is a common mistake. A good schedule is:

  • Hatchlings & Juveniles: Feed once a day.
  • Adults: Feed every other day, or 4-5 times a week.

Only offer as much food as they can eat in about 5 minutes to prevent waste and keep your turtle at a healthy weight.

Common Problems with Types of Painted Turtles (And How to Solve Them!)

Even with the best care, issues can arise. Knowing the signs of common problems with types of painted turtles helps you act fast. Most issues are directly related to improper habitat or diet.

Shell Rot

This fungal or bacterial infection appears as soft spots, pits, or slimy patches on the shell. It’s usually caused by poor water quality or a basking dock that isn’t warm or dry enough.

Solution: Immediately improve your water change schedule and check your basking temperatures. Mild cases can be treated at home, but a vet visit is recommended.

Respiratory Infections

If you see your turtle wheezing, blowing bubbles from its nose, or swimming lopsided, it likely has a respiratory infection. This is often caused by water or air temperatures being too cold.

Solution: This is serious. Double-check all your temperatures (water should be 75-80°F, basking 90-95°F) and see an exotics vet immediately.

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

MBD is a heartbreaking and preventable disease caused by a lack of UVB light and/or calcium. It leads to a soft, deformed shell and weak bones.

Solution: Prevention is the only cure. Ensure you have a strong, fresh UVB bulb and offer a varied diet. You can also provide a cuttlebone in the tank for extra calcium.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Turtle Keeping

Being a responsible pet owner goes beyond just the tank. Embracing sustainable types of painted turtles practices is crucial for the hobby and the environment.

First and foremost, only purchase captive-bred turtles. Wild-caught turtles suffer from the stress of capture and transport, and their removal harms wild populations. A captive-bred turtle from a reputable breeder is healthier and the more ethical choice.

Most importantly, never, ever release a pet turtle into the wild. They can introduce diseases to local wildlife and become an invasive species. If you can no longer care for your turtle, contact a local reptile rescue or herpetological society.

These eco-friendly types of painted turtles tips ensure that our love for these animals doesn’t harm them in their natural habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Painted Turtles

Can different types of painted turtles live together?

Yes, since they are all the same species, different subspecies can generally cohabitate. The key is providing ample space, multiple basking spots, and visual barriers. Always monitor for any signs of aggression, especially between males.

How long do painted turtles live?

With proper care, a painted turtle can be a companion for a very long time! A lifespan of 25 to 30 years is common, with some living even longer. This is a significant commitment that every potential owner must be prepared for.

Do painted turtles bite?

They can, but it’s almost always a defensive action when they feel scared or threatened. They are not naturally aggressive towards humans. With gentle handling, they will learn to see you as a source of food, not a threat.

Can I keep fish with my painted turtle?

It’s risky. Your turtle will view most fish as a potential snack. If you want to try, use fast-moving “dither fish” like zebra danios or guppies, and don’t get attached to them. Be prepared for the fish to become an expensive turtle meal.

Your Journey with Painted Turtles Awaits

Choosing to bring a painted turtle into your life is the start of a fascinating and rewarding journey. From the classic Eastern to the vibrant Western, each of the types of painted turtles offers a unique window into the aquatic world.

Remember the fundamentals: a large tank, powerful filtration, proper heat and UVB lighting, and a varied diet. By following this guide and committing to their long-term well-being, you’re not just setting up a tank—you’re creating a thriving ecosystem for a truly incredible animal.

Go forth and build an amazing habitat. Your new shelled friend is waiting!

Howard Parker
Latest posts by Howard Parker (see all)
Related posts
  • Best Water Heater For Turtles – A Shell-Proof Guide To Safety
  • Can Painted Turtles Mate With Red Eared Sliders – A Guide To Hybrid