Trachemys – Sliders

These turtles are well-known for their adaptability, vibrant markings, and semi-aquatic lifestyles. Found in habitats ranging from still ponds and lakes to slow-moving rivers and wetlands, sliders thrive in areas with abundant vegetation and basking spots. Their ability to adapt to various environments and their popularity in the pet trade has made them some of the most recognizable turtles globally.

Sliders are medium-sized turtles with smooth, domed carapaces (upper shells) that often display beautiful patterns of green, brown, and yellow. Their plastrons (lower shells) are usually lighter in color, sometimes marked with intricate designs. The most famous member of this genus is the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans), named for its distinctive red stripe behind each eye. Other notable species include the yellow-bellied slider (Trachemys scripta scripta) and the Central American slider (Trachemys venusta), each with unique regional characteristics.

One of the defining features of Trachemys turtles is their semi-aquatic lifestyle. They spend much of their time in the water but frequently emerge to bask in the sun on rocks, logs, or riverbanks. Basking is essential for their health, helping them regulate body temperature and maintain shell strength. These turtles are strong swimmers, using their webbed feet to navigate efficiently through water.

Sliders are omnivores with a varied diet that shifts as they age. Juveniles tend to be more carnivorous, feeding on insects, small fish, and aquatic invertebrates. As they mature, they become more herbivorous, incorporating aquatic plants, algae, and fruits into their diet. This flexible feeding behavior allows them to thrive in a range of habitats.