Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Pig-nosed turtle care guide
Carettochelys insculpta
The pig-nosed turtle is a expert-level semi-aquatic turtle from Southern New Guinea, northern Australia. Adults reach 40–60 cm shell and live 30–50 years in captivity. Fully aquatic: needs a very large, warm, well-filtered tank.
- Enclosure 360 × 120 × 75 cm
- Temp Water 27–30°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a pig-nosed turtle cost in Canada?
Pig-nosed turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 40–60 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 30–50 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Southern New Guinea, northern Australia
- Minimum enclosure
- 360 × 120 × 75 cm (142 × 47 × 30 in, ≈ 856 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 27–30°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Omnivore – fruit, greens, pellets, fish, shrimp
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Pig-nosed turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 360 × 120 × 75 cm (142 × 47 × 30 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 27–30°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Not needed.
What does a pig-nosed turtle eat?
Omnivore – fruit, greens, pellets, fish, shrimp. Feed adults daily in small amounts.
Handling, temperament & health
Display only; avoid handling.
Health watch: Skin and shell infections from poor water quality; intolerant of tankmates.
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 pig-nosed turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (360 × 120 × 75 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
Pig-nosed turtle FAQ
Is the pig-nosed turtle good for beginners?
No – the pig-nosed turtle is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Display only; avoid handling.
What size enclosure does a pig-nosed turtle need?
At least 360 × 120 × 75 cm (about 142 × 47 × 30 inches, roughly 856 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a pig-nosed turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $800–2000 CAD to buy, about $3870–6910 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $600–1200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a pig-nosed turtle need?
Temperature: Water 27–30°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a pig-nosed turtle eat?
Omnivore – fruit, greens, pellets, fish, shrimp. Feed adults daily in small amounts.
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.