Pet Information > ASK Experts > Exotic Pets > Turtles > Red Eared Slider - Shell problems

Red Eared Slider - Shell problems

22 15:56:18

Question
Bowser\'s top
Bowser's top  

Bowser\'s shell bottom
Bowser's shell bottom  
My sliders shell got these golds shiny marks on some of the scales. As time went on it got worse. I took him to see a vet, and he said it was algae on his shell. I really think it is something else personally, I want to make it better! It's on the front and back. I am just wondering if you have sent this before or know what it is? I have more pictures if you need to see more! Thanks!

Answer
Hi Courtney,

It does look like algae in some areas, but I'm concerned there might be some fungus, too.  Can you get any close up pictures?  Can you describe how it looks/feels?  Is it slimy, scaly (can you chip it with a fingernail), any sift areas, any redness ir oozing, etc.?  I'd also like to know how you have him set up--tank size, type of filter, temperatures, type of basking/UVB light, diet-- because that can affect shell conditions, too.  

If it's just algae, it's harmless.  You can gently scrub his shell with a soft toothbrush to remove it.  Fungus or other shell conditions would need treatment.  I can give better advice with more information.