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My 4 month old turtle is developing white patches with tine black spots on his shell. They were initially localised but have started spreading now. Also, his vertebral scute seems to be lying at a different level than the rest of them. He eats well and is active. I feed him turtle food and tubifex twice a day. Since i live in India, i haven't placed a heating bulb nor am I using a uvb bulb. I have placed him near my window as for now. Also, i change his water daily. What is wrong with his shell

My 4 month old turtle is developing white patches with tine black spots on his shell. They were initially localised but have started spreading now. Also, his vertebral scute seems to be lying at a different level than the rest of them. He eats well and is active. I feed him turtle food and tubifex twice a day. Since i live in India, i haven't placed a heating bulb nor am I using a uvb bulb. I have placed him near my window as for now. Also, i change his water daily. What is wrong with his shell

Updated On April 11th, 2017

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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Biscuit may be developing shell rot. This condition is usually caused by poor lighting, poor water quality, poor diet or a combination of the three. The lack of a UVB light source may be contributing to the condition. Natural sunlight is great but the window panes can block a large portion of the beneficial UVB rays. If the shell underneath looks pitted, deformed or feels soft and spongy then there could be a serious issue. Minor shell rot can be treated at home. Use a soft bristled tooth brush and an antiseptic such as chlorhexidine or povidone to gently clean affected areas. Dry dock Biscuit until the area heals. This means keep him out of the water except for 30 minutes daily to eat, eliminate and hydrate. The dry dock (and tank) should have a UVB source placed no more than 12 - 18 inches above the tank. Use a screen instead of plexiglass or glass. Replace UVB bulbs every 6 months. Clean the tank, do a water change and change the filter media. Feed a species appropriate diet and dust food with a calcium supplement once a week or more if indicated. A cuttlebone can be placed in the tank as a source of calcium to build shell strength. Stubborn or severe cases of rot or infection should be treated by a veterinarian experienced in treating turtles. Request a consultation to discuss the case in greater detail. More detailed information and advice can be provided once the species of turtle is known.

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