Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Mata mata care guide
Chelus fimbriata
The mata mata is a expert-level semi-aquatic turtle from Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. Adults reach 30–45 cm shell and live 30–40 years in captivity. Fully aquatic: large, shallow, soft acidic water so it can reach the surface without swimming.
- Enclosure 240 × 90 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 26–29°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a mata mata cost in Canada?
Mata mata quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 30–45 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 30–40 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 90 × 60 cm (94 × 35 × 24 in, ≈ 342 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 26–29°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Piscivore – live fish
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Mata mata enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 90 × 60 cm (94 × 35 × 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 26–29°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Not needed.
What does a mata mata eat?
Piscivore – live fish. Offer live fish several times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Display only; do not handle.
Health watch: Skin and shell infections in hard or dirty water; refusal to feed when stressed.
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 mata mata bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 90 × 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
Mata mata FAQ
Is the mata mata good for beginners?
No – the mata mata is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Display only; do not handle.
What size enclosure does a mata mata need?
At least 240 × 90 × 60 cm (about 94 × 35 × 24 inches, roughly 342 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a mata mata cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $1790–3190 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $500–900 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a mata mata need?
Temperature: Water 26–29°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a mata mata eat?
Piscivore – live fish. Offer live fish several times a week.
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.