Florida softshells and Spiny softshells (both indigenous to the south eastern US) are probably going to be the species that you go with. Both get quite large. I catch them in the wild all the time ranging from fresh hatchlings to females the size of my torso (not kidding). They are easy to feed, they do enjoy a sandy bottom (softshells do like to burrow at times and pop their heads up in an attempt to ambush passing fish or other food options), however it isnt a requirement. plain glass or pebbles like a normal fish tank will work.

They do get big and can grow fast. so it may go from being in a ten gallon tank as a little hatchling to requiring a koi pond (for a big adult) lol. just think about that.


If you want a group of turtles that is small, and STAYS small. Look at the family Kinosternidae. the Musk and Mud turtles. They can live their entire lives being under 6" in length. A 30 gallon tank for 1 adult would be fine. there are plenty of species to choose from that are native to the US, or if you want more exotic ones, you can also find them in the pet trade. My GF currently has a sternotherus odoratus and he is a great pet. loves pellets, shrimp (live or dried), and small crayfish. I'd recommend these little guys to anyone. They are very personable and tend to romp around on the bottom like a hippo lol.


I've owned sliders, cooters, mud/musks, and softshells. I have hatched FL cooters and am currently waiting on 6 florida softshell eggs.