Shell Rot

Shell rot primarily occurs to due bacteria or fungi infections of the shell. The bacteria that can rot the shell can come from a variety of sources such as dirty water or feeding the turtle food which has unwanted bacteria in it. Snails and fish used as food are the most likely to carry bacteria. Excess growth of algae on the turtle can also be a cause of shell rot.

The other major causes of shell rot or lack of proper nutrition and a lack of necessary vitamins. Calcium is required for the turtles shell to not only grow properly but also to maintain it in a healthy fashion. When a turtles shell begins to deteriorate it will need to be kept out of the water for as much time as possible. You will also need to do a thorough evaluation of the turtles diet and vitamin intake to ensure the shell has a chance to return to a healthy state.