Aquarium Thermometer

What temperature should aquarium water be?

Each turtle species has its own preference for aquarium water temperature. But generally, the ideal temperature is located between 22°C and 29°C. If you have a sea turtle, the aquarium water should be warmer between 26°C and 29°C, compared to 24°C and 28°C for a freshwater turtle. Having an accurate aquarium thermometer will therefore allow you to keep an eye on the water temperature and reheat it if necessary. 

Where to place the thermometer in the aquarium?

The reliable aquarium thermometer should be placed in a suitable location for optimal useA self-adhesive thermometer can be stuck directly to the inside or outside wall of the aquarium, in the coldest part. If you opt for a floating and standing aquarium thermometer, you must install it inside the aquarium. 

Avoid placing the device in an area exposed to direct sunlight, near a heating appliance or a aquarium UV bulb, as it may display a higher temperature than the actual temperature. In order to determine the average water temperature, it is recommended to place the digital aquarium thermometer equidistant between the heating system and the furthest area. 

How to read the aquarium thermometer?

If you have an electronic aquarium thermometer, you simply read the digital data displayed on the screen. With a mercury aquarium thermometer, you should observe the graduations: the graduation closest to the top of the red liquid corresponds to the water temperature. Finally, the connected aquarium thermometer can send data directly to your smartphone or tablet. This allows you to obtain accurate data in real time. 

Which thermometer for a turtle aquarium? 

There are several criteria that can be taken into account when choosing the best aquarium thermometer such as accuracy, reliability, ease of use, and budgetGenerally speaking, any type of aquarium thermometer can provide reliable data if you place it in the right location. Opt for a thermometer that is easy to read and attach to save time, as you should be checking the aquarium temperature regularly. For turtles that spend a lot of time at the water's surface, a floating thermometer is effective for monitoring the surface temperature.

You can also take into account additional features of the aquarium thermometer. For example, it is possible to find a thermometer with a temperature alarm that warns you if the temperature goes outside the desired range. Models of aquarium heating thermometer which automatically heats the aquarium water when the temperature drops. Or a aquarium thermometer with LED to make it easier to read data even at night. 

Finally, consider the quality and durability of the device to ensure they last a long time and remain accurate.