Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
African sideneck turtle care guide
Pelomedusa subrufa
The african sideneck turtle is a beginner-level semi-aquatic turtle from Sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar. Adults reach 15–30 cm shell and live 25–50 years in captivity. Mostly aquatic, with a large water section and a dry basking area.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 24–27°C, basking 32°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a african sideneck turtle cost in Canada?
African sideneck turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 15–30 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 25–50 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 24–27°C, basking 32°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – pellets, fish, insects, earthworms
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
African sideneck turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Water 24–27°C, basking 32°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Recommended.
What does a african sideneck turtle eat?
Carnivore – pellets, fish, insects, earthworms. Feed adults every 1–2 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Curious and interactive, but can bite.
Health watch: Shell rot and respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a african sideneck turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
African sideneck turtle FAQ
Is the african sideneck turtle good for beginners?
Yes – the african sideneck turtle is a good choice for beginners. Curious and interactive, but can bite.
What size enclosure does a african sideneck turtle need?
At least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (about 59 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 143 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a african sideneck turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $50–120 CAD to buy, about $950–1740 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a african sideneck turtle need?
Temperature: Water 24–27°C, basking 32°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a african sideneck turtle eat?
Carnivore – pellets, fish, insects, earthworms. Feed adults every 1–2 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.