turtle id

[Rhodin]

Yes there is truth to that. All diurnal reptiles require uvb rays to create vitamin D. Which helps metabolize calicum. But in all the years Ive kept turtles and other reptiles. Ive never had a problem with no lights for turtles. There hardy animals .I do have them in a room that gets afternoon sun every once in a while and that seems like thats enough. I know lots of people who keep there snappers in blackout water conditions and in dark rooms and have for years with no ill effects. We are talking wild caught specimens also. Maybe captive bred specimens are more apt to have sensitivies to a lack of uvb rays?

But snappers don't bask so it would make more sense that they can do without lamps. and if you're keeping your turtles so that they have access to sun(even if it isnt all day every day) they that would be similar to using a heat lamp/uvb in a room without direct sunlight no?
People used to keep tarantulas in tanks with sand, a heat pad and a sponge in the water dish. Sure the tarantulas might've survived for years but that's not the best way to keep them. In captivity you should strive to keep you animals as best as you possibly can.

Obviously this an extreme case of animal cruelty but this is one of the deformed turtles I saw.(note: I realise that this wasn't just a lack of uvb and that diet and space played a large roll. but the handler said herself that lack of uvb likely just made it worse) http://ca.news.yahoo.com/blogs/good...le-toronto-based-turtle-rescue-173703496.html

 

[jgerou85]

Snappers do bask . Just not on logs or banks like most other turtles. I see them float on the surface for hours sometimes soaking up sun. The turtle in the bucket was badly deformed . But just not because of a lack of uv rays. Bad diet. Poor living conditions had a far larger role in its issues then just no light. I think im getting off topic so.... I agree that you should do your best to provide the turtle ( or any creature ) with everything they need to thrive. And while I dont think a special uvb light is absolutely needed . It would be good measure to get one . But what would be better would be if the turtle in question was put back where it belongs.