Overview
The Razorback Musk Turtle (Sternotherus carinatus) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-gray, keeled shell coloration. Distinctive keeled shell. Bottom to Mid.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: Southern US.
Colors: Brown-Gray, Keeled shell.
Body Shape: Turtle (domed shell). Typical adult dimensions: 16.0 x 11.2 x 6.4.
Sexual Dimorphism: Moderate; males have longer/thicker tails, concave plastron.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 72–81°F |
| pH Range | 7–8 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | 5-15 |
| Bioload | very-high |
| Oxygen Demand | low |
| Plant Safe | mostly |
| Aquarium Position | Bottom to Mid |
Behavior & Activity
Bottom walker-swimmer; spends more time walking on bottom than open swimming; keeled shell distinctive
Speed: 35/100Aggression: 3/10diurnal
Breeding
Moderate; egg layer on land
Common Diseases
💊 Shell rot💊 respiratory infection💊 MBD
Expert Notes
Distinctive keeled shell