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Species setup · Eastern long-necked turtle

A turtle tank is mostly a filtration plan.

Eastern long-necked turtles are curious, long-lived and messy. Good water, a dry basking dock with heat and UVB, and a filter that can keep up are what make the setup work.

Species setupUpdated October 2026Written for Australian keepers

At a glance

Adult tank
120 × 60 × 60 cm minimum
Water depth
30–40 cm (less for juveniles)
Water temperature
≈22–24 °C (guarded heater)
Basking dock
≈30–32 °C under a lamp
UVB
10% tube over the dock
Filter
Canister, rated for ≈5× tank volume per hour

Filtration first

Turtles eat and toilet in the same water. A canister filter rated for several times your water volume, plus regular partial water changes, keeps the tank clear and healthy. Feeding in a separate tub helps a lot.

A proper dry dock

The turtle must be able to haul out completely and dry off under heat and UVB. A sturdy dock or above-tank basking platform with an easy ramp is essential.

Diet

Juveniles eat daily; adults every two or three days. Offer turtle pellets, earthworms, yabbies, shrimp and some fish. Long-necked turtles are carnivores — they won’t eat much plant matter.

Licensing

Native turtles need a licence or permit in most Australian states and territories. Check with your state wildlife authority.

What to buy

01

Canister filter

Best for: Main filtration

Why it’s on the list
Large media capacity for messy turtles.
Watch for
Choose one rated for ≈5× your water volume.
Compare on Amazon AU
02

Turtle basking platform

Best for: A dry dock

Why it’s on the list
Lets the turtle fully haul out.
Watch for
Must be stable and easy to climb.
Compare on Amazon AU
03

Guarded aquarium heater

Best for: Keeping water at ≈22–24 °C

Why it’s on the list
Stable water temperature through winter.
Watch for
Use a guard so the turtle can’t break it.
Compare on Amazon AU
04

T5 10% UVB + basking lamp

Best for: Heat and UVB over the dock

Why it’s on the list
Supports shell and bone health.
Watch for
Keep fittings safe from splashes.
Compare on Amazon AU

A dock that looks like a riverbank

We make custom turtle docks, basking islands and backgrounds that hide filter pipes.

Ask about a turtle build

Questions keepers ask

What size tank does an eastern long-necked turtle need?

At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm for an adult, with 30–40 cm of water and a dry dock.

Do long-necked turtles need UVB?

Yes — a UVB tube over the basking dock supports shell and bone health.

How often should I clean a turtle tank?

Partial water changes weekly and filter maintenance every few weeks is typical; feeding in a separate tub reduces mess.

Keep reading

Best Reptile UVB Lights in AustraliaReptile Heatwave Safety in AustraliaFeeder Insects in Australia

General information for Australian keepers, not veterinary advice. As an Amazon Associate, Oddball Animal Works earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes your price. About our links

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