Got a ? about water temp

[techgirl]

As you all know, I've been setting up a tank for a reeve's turtle that I hope to get at Hamburg in 2 weeks. I've been trying to get the temp just right but seem to be having some issues. With the 100 watt terra-fauna heater, I can get 74 degrees steady. With my 200 watt, I get between 78-80 degrees. Which is better? I read that they are more cold hardy but that hatchlings need it a little warmer. I have the basking temp area set at 95degrees steady with a small area staying at 82(I got a floating basking ramp for the a40 gallon tank size that measures 9"X18") I have a smaller area on the other side that is partially submerged where they can have their head out of water but still have the majority of the body in water. Is this set up OK? Also my daughter has been asking about adding some small fish to it and am wondering if this is fine and if so, what kind. What would you recommend? There is about 15 gallons in the tank. Thank you for your input.

 

[Ccrashca069]

I always keep my water temp at 80. As far as keeping some fish in the tank, not a good ideal. The turtle would catch and eat the fish.

 

[techgirl]

Thanks John. We figured the fish would be an eventual dinner. She just wanted to be able to see them for a little bit and see the feeding process. We were just curious. She knows turtles eat fish and know she may wake up to some or all missing one day.

 

[Ccrashca069]

Your welcome Jessica. The basking platforms and everything else sounds good. I cleaned my tank today and I use a Stealth 200 watt submergable heater.