The Fascinating Hybino Red Ear Slider Turtle

An Introduction to Red Ear Slider Turtles

Red ear slider turtles, with the scientific name of Trachemys scripta elegans, are one of the most popular pet turtle varieties kept in captivity. Native to the United States, they originate from a range spanning from northern Mexico up through central Canada. Within this expansive territory, red ear sliders naturally inhabit slow moving rivers, ponds, lakes and other bodies of freshwater throughout grasslands, woodlands and wetland ecosystems.

Some key attributes that have contributed to red ear sliders being such a commonly kept pet include their hardy constitution, moderate size, generally friendly demeanor and relatively low care requirements when provided a suitable habitat. In the wild, they are omnivorous scavengers that forage along shorelines and in shallow waters, consuming plants, insects, worms, fish and carrion. Their diet in captivity often mimics this, consisting of commercial aquatic turtle foods, greens, proteins and occasional treats.

With a lifespan of 15-20 years on average when cared for properly, red ear sliders make engaging exotic pets that can provide enjoyment for many years. Their colorful carapace patterning and red markings on the sides of their heads give these turtles an appealing exotic appearance. For those seeking a hardy, low-maintenance turtle species suited for both beginners and experienced herpers alike, red ear sliders present an excellent choice.

The Unique Hybino Morph

While the standard coloration of red ear sliders is typically a brown carapace with hues of yellow and red radiating outwards, exotic color morphs have been selectively bred that possess striking alternative patterns and shades. One such morph is the hybino red ear slider, a genetic mutation producing an albino appearance.

Hybino, a portmanteau of “hypo” and “albino”, refers to turtles that are heterozygous for the albino gene. This results in a lighter, yellowish shell and soft tissues compared to normal red ear sliders, along with pinkish skin and eyes rather than the dark pigmentation seen in wild types. The hybino’s shell patterning remains intact, so its markings stand out in vivid contrast against the pale background coloring.

This unique color morph was achieved through selective captive breeding programs. Hybino red ear sliders are not found in the natural environment. Their unusual appearance makes them a highly sought after exotic pet among turtle enthusiasts. Hybinos command premium prices from breeders due to their status as a designer color variation selectively developed over many generations.

Exotic Reptile Sales’ Hybino Red Ear Slider Specimen

Let’s take a closer look at the individual hybino red ear slider turtle currently for sale from Exotic Reptile Sales. According to the product listing, this specimen is a captive bred male measuring approximately 5 inches in carapace length, indicating continued growth potential.

Native localities are noted as ranging from northern Mexico through central North America. The seller provides assurance this particular turtle was captive bred to eliminate any concerns over wild collection. Key aspects of red ear slider natural history and average adult size of 12 inches are summarized. Care sheets and nutritional information can be found on the seller’s website for prospective owners.

Pricing details show the original listed price of $1,299.99, with a current sale price of $1,249.99. This represents a modest $50 discount and reasonable valuation for a designer color morph specimen. No reviews have been posted yet, allowing future buyers an opportunity to provide the first feedback. Delivery is available within the USA.

Overall, the product page presents this hybino red ear slider in an informative manner conducive to making an educated purchasing decision. Prospective turtle guardians can feel confident in Exotic Reptile Sales’ reputation as a quality exotic pet vendor.

Hybino Care Requirements

While hybino red ear sliders have the same basic husbandry needs as standard red ear sliders, there are a few aspects of care specific to their light coloring that owners should be aware of. As with any albino or light morph animal, hybinos are more prone to issues from excessive sunlight such as eye damage and thermal stress.

Proper UVB lighting and heating are still required for healthy bone development and metabolic processes. However, hybinos benefit from a more shaded aquatic environment with areas to fully submerge or hide when basking. Glass aquariums should have a covering of opaque material on the sides to block direct sunlight penetration.

Hybino skin and soft tissues lack the normal pigmentation providing UV protection. Owners must be diligent about monitoring basking behavior and not allowing prolonged direct sun exposure, which can lead to burns or medical issues over time. Artificial lighting and heating sources are preferable to natural sunlight for hybinos. Nutritional and environmental requirements otherwise match a standard red ear slider care regime.

With the appropriate shaded aquatic habitat and cautious sun exposure management, hybinos can thrive as delightfully unique pets. Their special needs simply require adjusted husbandry awareness on part of dedicated turtle guardians. Exotic Reptile Sales offers quality specimens that come with the experience and resources to guide new owners successfully.

FAQs About Hybino Red Ear Sliders

Here are some frequently asked questions about hybino red ear sliders:

• How large of an aquarium is needed? At least a 75-100 gallon aquarium is recommended for an adult hybino to allow for swimming, basking and filtration needs.
• What is their average lifespan? With excellent care including a balanced diet and suitable habitat, hybinos can live 15-25 years on average.
• Are they social animals? Red ear sliders can be kept singly or in same-sex pairs/groups. Hybinos should not be housed with other turtle species that may see them as prey.
• What is the ideal water temperature? A water temperature range of 75-85°F is suitable for hybinos, with a basking area around 90°F for proper digestion.
• Can they be kept with fish? While some keepers report success, it is generally not recommended to house hybinos or red ear sliders with fish due to the risk of predation or competition for food/space.
• How often do they need to be fed? Hybinos can be fed 2-3 times per week. A varied diet including commercial aquatic turtle pellets, proteins, greens and occasional treats supports their nutritional requirements.

I hope this information has provided a thorough overview of hybino red ear slider natural history, the unique traits of this morph, and the specific hybino currently available from Exotic Reptile Sales. You can check out other Turtles for sale such as the Mata Mata Turtle.