Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Scorpion mud turtle care guide
Kinosternon scorpioides
The scorpion mud turtle is a intermediate-level semi-aquatic turtle from Mexico through Central and South America. Adults reach 12–18 cm shell and live 30–50 years in captivity. Mostly aquatic, with a large water section and a land area; males can be aggressive.
- Enclosure 120 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Water 25–28°C, basking 31°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a scorpion mud turtle cost in Canada?
Scorpion mud turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 12–18 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 30–50 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- Mexico through Central and South America
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 64 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 25–28°C, basking 31°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – pellets, insects, snails, earthworms, fish
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Scorpion mud turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 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 25–28°C, basking 31°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Recommended.
What does a scorpion mud turtle eat?
Carnivore – pellets, insects, snails, earthworms, fish. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Bites readily; better watched than held.
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 scorpion mud turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 45 × 45 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
Scorpion mud turtle FAQ
Is the scorpion mud turtle good for beginners?
The scorpion mud turtle is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Bites readily; better watched than held.
What size enclosure does a scorpion mud turtle need?
At least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (about 47 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 64 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a scorpion mud turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $150–300 CAD to buy, about $650–1190 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a scorpion mud turtle need?
Temperature: Water 25–28°C, basking 31°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a scorpion mud turtle eat?
Carnivore – pellets, insects, snails, earthworms, fish. Feed adults every 2–3 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.