I bought 2 turtles at the same time, from the same place, now one is WAY bigger. Why?

Question

I am comfused because I am certain that the larger turtle is male (confirmed by the long claws and I saw him stick his organ out) but everything I read states that females are larger. Do the females grow at a slower rate??

Answer 1

It can often depend on their feeding habbits. Through my experience with pet reptiles, some are great feeders and grow big and fast, others are slow feeders and don't consume as much. Try monitoring how much food each one eats.

Answer 2

Well, I suppose sometimes it depends on the turtles' genes. Some may have a higher level or concentration of growth hormones than others.

Answer 3

animals like humans have different growth rates and males do grow quicker thats why they are bigger then females in the wild just make sure they dont start fighting or you will have a big problem

Answer 4

well i have the same problem to. i found it is best just to not worry but if you are dont worry becasue it will be fine

Answer 5

depends on the genes. buying the turtles at the same time from the same place does not mean same parent turtles. with different genes, their growth, diet, digestion, maturity, adaptibility and characteristics are different. resulting in difference.

Answer 6

Most likely the larger turtle is eating most/all of the food you provide for the pair, assuming they're of the same species that is.  When I was younger, my parents bought my sister and I turtles, and mine would eat most of the food, but by the time I'd noticed (since the tank was in my room) it was too late =(

Try either separating them (especially if they're male/female) or watching them during mealtime, and the problem should resolve itself.