Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Spiny softshell care guide
Apalone spinifera
The spiny softshell is a advanced-level semi-aquatic turtle from Southern Canada to northern Mexico. Adults reach Females 25–45 cm shell, males 13–22 cm and live 30–50 years in captivity. Fully aquatic: give a large water section with soft sand to bury in. Native and protected in Canada.
- Enclosure 300 × 90 × 60 cm
- Temp Water 24–27°C, basking 30–32°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a spiny softshell cost in Canada?
Spiny softshell quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- Females 25–45 cm shell, males 13–22 cm
- Lifespan
- 30–50 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Southern Canada to northern Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 300 × 90 × 60 cm (118 × 35 × 24 in, ≈ 428 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 24–27°C, basking 30–32°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – fish, insects, shrimp, earthworms, pellets
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Spiny softshell enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 300 × 90 × 60 cm (118 × 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 24–27°C, basking 30–32°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Recommended.
What does a spiny softshell eat?
Carnivore – fish, insects, shrimp, earthworms, pellets. Feed adults every 1–2 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast, nervous and bites hard; minimise handling.
Health watch: Skin damage from rough decor and infections in dirty water.
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 spiny softshell bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (300 × 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
Spiny softshell FAQ
Is the spiny softshell good for beginners?
The spiny softshell is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Fast, nervous and bites hard; minimise handling.
What size enclosure does a spiny softshell need?
At least 300 × 90 × 60 cm (about 118 × 35 × 24 inches, roughly 428 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a spiny softshell cost in Canada?
Typically $40–120 CAD to buy, about $2210–3940 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $400–700 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a spiny softshell need?
Temperature: Water 24–27°C, basking 30–32°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a spiny softshell eat?
Carnivore – fish, insects, shrimp, earthworms, pellets. 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.