Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Asian leaf turtle care guide
Cyclemys dentata
The asian leaf turtle is a intermediate-level semi-aquatic turtle from Southeast Asia. Adults reach 18–24 cm shell and live 25+ years in captivity. Uses both land and water: a half-and-half setup with shallow water and a humid land area.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 24–26°C, basking 30°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a asian leaf turtle cost in Canada?
Asian leaf turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 18–24 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 25+ years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 24–26°C, basking 30°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Omnivore – pellets, insects, earthworms, fish, fruit, greens
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Asian leaf 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 Mix10 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 24–26°C, basking 30°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a asian leaf turtle eat?
Omnivore – pellets, insects, earthworms, fish, fruit, greens. Feed adults every 1–2 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy; minimise handling.
Health watch: Shell rot and parasites in imported animals.
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 asian leaf 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, 10 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
Asian leaf turtle FAQ
Is the asian leaf turtle good for beginners?
The asian leaf turtle is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Shy; minimise handling.
What size enclosure does a asian leaf 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 asian leaf turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $100–250 CAD to buy, about $980–1780 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a asian leaf turtle need?
Temperature: Water 24–26°C, basking 30°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a asian leaf turtle eat?
Omnivore – pellets, insects, earthworms, fish, fruit, greens. 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.