Red-eared Slider (Albino)

Red-eared Slider Turtle (Albino)

Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
Common Name: Albino Red-eared Slider

Species Overview

Size: Males typically reach 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23 cm), while females grow larger at 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm).

Appearance: Albino Red-eared Sliders display a striking lack of melanin, resulting in vivid yellow to cream-coloured shells with soft orange or pink undertones. The iconic “red ear” patch remains present but appears brighter or more pastel. The skin ranges from pale yellow to almost white, with visibility of underlying blood vessels giving some individuals a pinkish tone. Eyes are typically red or ruby. Females are broader and larger-bodied, while males have longer claws and tails. Colour intensity varies across individuals depending on expression of the albino trait.

Distribution: The wild form originates from the central United States, primarily around the Mississippi River basin, though the species is now widespread globally due to release and trade. The Albino form is strictly a captive-bred colour variant.

Habitat: Wild Red-eared Sliders inhabit ponds, lakes, marshes, swamps, and slow-moving rivers with plentiful basking sites. In captivity, Albinos require similar environments but benefit from additional shade options due to increased light sensitivity.

Behaviour: Albino Red-eared Sliders are active swimmers, strong baskers, and alert foragers. They retain the bold, curious temperament of typical sliders and quickly learn feeding routines. Light sensitivity may cause some individuals to seek shade more frequently.

Captive Care

Enclosure: Provide an aquatic enclosure with a minimum footprint of 48 × 24 inches (120 × 60 cm) for an adult female; males may be housed in slightly smaller enclosures, though larger is always preferable. Offer deep, clean water, a solid basking platform, submerged driftwood, rocks, and floating vegetation. Because Albinos are more visually sensitive, ensure shaded or low-glare areas are available within the tank. Strong filtration is essential due to high waste output.

Temperature and Humidity:
Water temperature: 76 to 80°F (24 to 27°C)
Basking area: 90 to 95°F (32 to 35°C)
Ambient air temperature: 78 to 84°F (26 to 29°C)

Lighting: Provide full-spectrum lighting with 10–12% UVB to support strong shell development and metabolic health, but also ensure shaded areas for light-sensitive individuals. The basking platform must remain fully dry and secure.

Diet: Offer a varied omnivorous diet including insects, earthworms, aquatic invertebrates, high-quality turtle pellets, leafy greens, aquatic plants, vegetables, and occasional fruits. Juveniles require higher protein levels, while adults shift toward a more plant-rich diet.

Behaviour in Captivity: Albino Sliders are active swimmers and enthusiastic feeders. They bask frequently and appreciate structured, enriched environments. Individuals may seek lower lighting intensity due to reduced pigmentation, but otherwise behave similarly to wild-type sliders.

Special Considerations

• Albinos have increased light sensitivity—provide shaded and low-glare areas.
• Require strong filtration and regular water changes.
• Females need significantly more space due to larger size.
• Juveniles require higher protein; adults shift to plant-heavy diets.

Taxonomy Note

The Albino Red-eared Slider is a selectively bred colour variant of Trachemys scripta elegans, one of the most widespread and recognisable turtle species in the world. Albino individuals do not occur commonly in nature due to predation vulnerability.

Genetics Note

Albino (recessive) – This genetic trait removes melanin, producing bright yellow, cream, or pastel pink coloration with red eyes. Expression varies across individuals, with some showing deeper yellow tones and others appearing almost white.