Stink Pot Turtle Care Guide - Common Musk Turtle

Admin: Caitlin
Aug 5
3 min read

Stink Pot Turtle, also known as the Common Musk Turtle, is a tiny aquatic turtle.

With proper care, these turtles are fun long-term companions.

The Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus) is a small freshwater turtle native to eastern North America. Adults typically grow to just 3 to 5 inches long, which makes them one of the smallest turtles.

They get their nickname 'Stink Pot' from a musky odor they can release when threatened. However, in my experience when in captivity, they rarely (or never) use it.

Lifespan: 30–50 years with proper care
Size: 3–5 inches (shell length)
Temperament: Mostly shy but curious

Musk turtles are aquatic, but don’t need a ton of space. Water quality and basking areas are important.

Minimum Tank Size:

20 gallons for one adult (though 30+ gallons is better)

I have both of mine in a 30 gal and they’ve never shown aggression or conflict.

A longer tank is better than tall, as they are bottom-walkers.

They aren’t know to be great swimmers, but I’ve never seen mine really struggle.

I even have an aquarium water pump (also known as a powerhead), which promotes water circulation and ensures the tank’s water is oxygenated.

Water Depth:

I’ve read that shallow to medium water depth is best, around 6–12 inches, but I have it closer to 20 inches, with a lot of driftwood and things they can use to climb up.

Since they aren’t strong swimmers, it is important to provide lots of climbing areas and rests (driftwood, turtle docks, cork bark).

Heating & Lighting:

Water Temp: 74–78°F (baby turtles), 70–75°F for adults
Basking Spot: 85–90°F
Use a UVB light (5.0 strength) to support shell and bone health

Filtration:

A strong canister filter
Clean water is critical.

Decor & Enrichment:

Even though they’re not huge swimmers, stink pots are super curious.

Add rocks, driftwood, floating logs, and caves
Provide hiding spots so they feel safe
Low basking platform, they rarely bask, but give the option.
Live or silk aquatic plants for enrichment (just make sure they’re safe to eat)

Diet & Feeding:

Feeding your musk turtle a healthy, varied diet is one of the most rewarding parts of care. Be sure to provide a proper diet and calcium (you can dust treats with calcium powder weekly).

Aquatic turtle pellets (like Zoo Med or Mazuri)
Offer every other day for adults, daily for juveniles

Protein Treats (2–3x/week):

Earthworms
Bloodworms
Chopped shrimp
Cooked, plain chicken (occasionally)

Plant Matter (optional):

Duckweed, anacharis, or romaine lettuce
They’re mostly carnivorous but may nibble on plants

Health & Shedding

Healthy musk turtles have clear eyes, a smooth shell, and lots of personality.

Signs of a Healthy Musk Turtle

Bright, clear eyes
Strong, regular swimming
Hard shell, not soft or flaking unusually
No foul smell from shell or skin
Eats regularly and eagerly
Alert when approached or handled
Skin and neck free of lumps, swelling, or open wounds

Watch for:

Shell rot (soft, white patches or bad smell)
Respiratory infections (bubbling nose, wheezing, lethargy)

Shell Symptoms	What It Might Mean
Soft spots, deep pits, or flaking shell	Shell rot, fungal or bacterial infection
Foul smell, especially from shell	Advanced shell rot
White patches or fuzzy growth	Fungal infection
Cracks or deep discoloration	Trauma, poor water conditions, infection
Retained scutes	(stuck pieces of shell during shedding)

Eye/Nose/Mouth Symptoms	What It Might Mean
Swollen, puffy, or closed eyes	Vitamin A deficiency, respiratory infection
Mucus or bubbles from nose	Respiratory infection
Gasping or wheezing	Respiratory issue, needs vet attention
Refusal to eat	Illness, stress, poor temperatures

Symptom	What It Might Mean
Lethargy or hiding constantly	Illness, water too cold, stress
Floating lopsided or can't dive	Respiratory infection or gas buildup
Sudden aggression or excessive scratching	Parasites, stress, skin issues