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Is it safe for a small turtle to live with a larger red-eared slider?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Sorry! In my last question regarding the hatching living with Oscar, Oscar is a turtle not a fish, that’s his name, although I do have a cichlids tank but that’s different:). So would a hatching be able to live with a 5 ish inch turtle red eared slider? Male, loves to eat live feeder goldfish (small) and snails. There are two basking docks. Should I get a yearling instead that could live with him? There are two basking areas. can all slider turtle breeds live together?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 30th, 2018

I wouldn't recommend keeping a smaller turtle with a larger turtle. Oscar would harass or try to eat the smaller turtle. Red eared sliders can be quite territorial and aggressive towards other sliders. If you have a huge tank, say over 100 gallons, it *may* work.
If you are set on having another turtle, look for one that is similar in size. The problem with mixing species is that there may be care and environmental differences that you may not be able to overcome in order to provide adequate care to both species.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on October 21st, 2018
Use caution when introducing two turtles, especially if there is a significant size difference. Determining gender is critical also since females tend to be more aggressive and territorial than male sliders. Be sure to provide a large enough tank. The general rule is 10 gallons of water per inch of turtle. Two turtles may require a 120 gallon tank. It is possible the tank may need to be larger.
Basic provisions include a water filter, water heater, basking platform, heat lamp and UVB lighting. A balanced diet will consist of fresh greens and vegetables, animal protein and commercial pellets. You can review slider care at the link below.

http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Is red-eared slider care same for all slider turtles? Do I need a filter?

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Why is my small musk turtle not eating or growing with its tank mate?

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What's the minimum housing setup for a small red-eared slider turtle?

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Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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