Can Red-eared Sliders eat Feeder Fish?
Poecilia reticulata
Safety verdict
Safe
Why
Natural prey item for adults. Use guppies, mollies, or rosy reds — avoid goldfish (thiaminase risk with regular feeding).
How much / how often
Adults: once or twice per week. Not recommended for juveniles as a regular food.
Preparation
Avoid goldfish as a regular feeder — high thiaminase content. Guppies, mollies, and rosy reds preferred.
Nutrition (per 100 g)
16 mg
Calcium
214 mg
Phosphorus
0.1:1
Ca:P ratio
18 g
Protein
Sources
Exotic vet reviewVCA Animal Hospitals — Feeding Aquatic Turtles ↗
Feeder fish are an appropriate food for adult aquatic turtles, mimicking their natural diet.
Where to buy
Josh's Frogs Crickets (Live)Shop →Dried Mealworms (Reptile Feeder)Shop →Aquatic Turtle Pellets — Zoo Med Natural Aquatic Turtle FoodShop →
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Not veterinary advice. This information is for educational purposes. Always consult a qualified exotic animal veterinarian for guidance specific to your pet.