Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Northern map turtle care guide
Graptemys geographica
The northern map turtle is a intermediate-level semi-aquatic turtle from Great Lakes, St. Lawrence and Mississippi basins. Adults reach Females 18–27 cm, males 9–16 cm and live 20–30 years in captivity. Needs a large water section with strong, clean flow. Females grow far larger than males.
- Enclosure 240 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 22–25°C, basking 30–35°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a northern map turtle cost in Canada?
Northern map turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Females 18–27 cm, males 9–16 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Great Lakes, St. Lawrence and Mississippi basins
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 60 × 60 cm (94 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 228 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 22–25°C, basking 30–35°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Omnivore – snails, insects, pellets, fish, some plants
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Northern map turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 60 × 60 cm (94 × 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 22–25°C, basking 30–35°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Required.
What does a northern map turtle eat?
Omnivore – snails, insects, pellets, fish, some plants. Feed adults every 1–2 days; females benefit from snails to crush.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy and nervous; avoid handling.
Health watch: Shell rot and skin infections from poor water quality.
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 northern map turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 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
Northern map turtle FAQ
Is the northern map turtle good for beginners?
The northern map turtle is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Shy and nervous; avoid handling.
What size enclosure does a northern map turtle need?
At least 240 × 60 × 60 cm (about 94 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 228 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a northern map turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $80–200 CAD to buy, about $1360–2450 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–600 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a northern map turtle need?
Temperature: Water 22–25°C, basking 30–35°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a northern map turtle eat?
Omnivore – snails, insects, pellets, fish, some plants. Feed adults every 1–2 days; females benefit from snails to crush.
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.