When many people think of red eared sliders, the cute baby sliders sold in pet stores often come to mind. Sliders may look small as babies, but did you know they can grow up to 12 inches? Now that's a big contrast to pet store baby sliders!

Since sliders can grow so large and live up to 30 years, choosing to care for one requires a long-term commitment and proper housing. Sliders don't generally need a lot to be happy and healthy, but they can be time consuming and expensive to care for.

When choosing what size aquarium you need for your turtle, the general rule is 6 gallons minimum per inch of turtle. The most cost-effective way is to provide the size of tank recommended for an adult slider right away, which gives your slider all the room it needs to properly grow and allows you to avoid the hassle and expense of constantly upgrading your pet's tank when it becomes too small.

Sliders need clean water, so constant water changes are important. One piece of equipment that can help keep the water clean between changes is a filter. There are several types, including: mechanical (internal, external hang-on-backs, and canister) and biological (internal sponge). You can even use a combination of these types. Undergravel filters, while they may look like less maintenance, should be avoided as they tend to trap waste which can negatively affect water quality.

Red eared sliders also require warm water. Temperatures between 75 - 85 degrees Fahrenheit will work quite well. A submersible heater will do the job of maintaining the perfect water temperature. Turtles are stronger than they look, and glass heaters can easily break, so be sure to protect the heater by using a heater-guard which can usually be purchased at the same place you buy the heater.

Warmth stimulates a slider's immune system, and a warm, dry area where it can "bask" is required. The basking area should be a flat, elevated area in the aquarium that is usually accessible by your turtle through the use of a ramp. The heat in this area can be provided by a 50 - 150 watt incandescent bulb.

If your pet does not have access to natural, unblocked sunlight, then a UV light is also needed. Specific reptile lights at your pet store work great for this, and will provide for your slider's needs in this area.

Decorations can also be included in your turtle's aquarium. Whatever you choose to use, make sure the decorations are not easily broken or have small parts that can become detached. If unsure of what to use, the reptile-safe decorations available at your local pet store should be okay.