These turtles, one of the lesser subspecies of the Map turtle, are native to Texas and can be found in the swift-moving waters that border the Colorado River. Texas Map turtles have shells that range in color from brown to olive and are covered in yellow patterns resembling the map’s outlines. Additionally, Texas Map turtles have spiky keels.
Three yellow or orange dots that run along the bottom of Texas Map turtles’ heads set them apart from other Map turtle species. They are omnivores and primarily consume plants, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.
Care as a Pet
Housing
In lakes, rivers, and oxbows with sluggish currents, aquatic vegetation, and logs and branches for sunbathing, the Graptemys versa generally makes its home. The Texas map turtle needs a tank. A mature male could be found in a tank of 25 to 30 gallons (two adult males can be housed in a 25 to 30-gallon tank with little to no complication). But a mature female requires a substantial 50 to 55-gallon tank (two adult females can be housed in a 55-gallon tank). No matter the size, the Texas map turtle prefers a large aquarium. I suggest the 55-gallon Tetra Aquarium Kit. Being active turtles who like to move about and swim a lot, they need the space.
Heat
The proper water temperature is maintained with the aid of a submersible heater. The water can’t be too hot since the turtle tans. The water should be about 75 degrees. Use a submersible heater, such as the Orlushy Submersible Aquarium Heater, if the water isn’t warm enough. A mercury vapour lamp or a ceramic lamp might be used at the sunbathing area. Heat and UV light are both produced by mercury vapour lamps, such as the MyComfyPets UV Light. But at night, it must be turned off. The turtle is kept warm at all times using a ceramic heat lamp, such as Fluker’s Ceramic Heat Emitter, which can run nonstop for 24 hours every day. The ideal basking temperature is from 85 to 100 F. 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit should be the surrounding temperature.
Feed
Feed the babies once per day. They are more carnivorous as hatchlings up until they are about six months old. Commercial feeds like ReptoMin and Mazuri are perfect for feeding the turtle. Freeze-dried krill and Zoo Med Natural Aquatic Turtle Food are two other brand-name products to feed the turtle. Additionally, you can give them live food like mealworms and crickets. Make sure they are fed enough to curb their appetite. You can give them a couple of ReptoMin pellets for the next few weeks. Reduce the feeding frequency to once every two days as they get older. Avoid attempting to remove hatchlings from their primary enclosure while they are being fed because of their timid and delicate nature.
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