This review delves into the Penn-Plax Reptology Turtle Pier, assessing its practicality and suitability for turtles of varying sizes. We examine the ease of assembly, the durability of the materials, and the overall design, focusing on both its strengths and weaknesses. Particular attention is paid to the basking platform's dimensions, the crucial ramp design, and the pier's stability in the water, especially concerning larger adult turtles. The review considers the necessary modifications and adjustments needed to ensure safe and comfortable use, ultimately determining whether this floating dock is a worthwhile investment for your reptile companion.The assessment covers aspects ranging from the initial unboxing experience and assembly process to the actual functionality and practicality of the pier within a typical turtle habitat. We explore the impact on tank setup, including water level adjustments and the need for supplemental equipment like basking lamps and secure tank coverings. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation, guiding prospective buyers toward an informed decision based on their turtle's size and their specific tank environment.
Pros And Cons
- Large basking area (10.5 inches by 9 inches), suitable for many adult turtles.
- Easy to assemble.
- Floating design adjusts to water level.
- Ramp is too small for large turtles.
- Suction cups may fail, causing the pier to move.
- Gravel chamber may encourage turtles to ingest gravel, potentially leading to health problems.
- May require lowering the water level in the tank to prevent escapes and accommodate basking lamp placement.
Read more: 5-Star Reptile Basking Platform with Hiding Spot
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Penn-Plax Reptology Turtle Pier arrived well-packaged. The large size was impressive, promising ample basking space for my adult turtle, Harold. The plastic components felt durable, but I was initially concerned about their buoyancy, given Harold's substantial weight.
The assembly appeared straightforward, with minimal parts. The instructions were easy to follow, although I considered myself an "expert" after a quick glance. The design, with its pylon-like supports and basket-style platform, had a unique aesthetic appeal.
My first impression was positive. The components were well-designed, and the assembly seemed simple enough for even a novice to handle. However, the buoyancy of the platform and the suitability of the ramp for an adult turtle remained to be seen.
Assembly Process
Assembly was remarkably simple. The base snapped together easily, and the pylons were a straightforward push-fit. The extender pylons were added to customize the height for my tank.
Attaching the basking platform was quick and intuitive. The little plastic retainer pieces added a nice finishing touch, making the structure feel sturdy.
The final step was attaching the ramp. While the assembly was easy, I immediately noticed the ramp's relatively small size compared to the basking platform, potentially posing a challenge for larger turtles.
Size and Design Considerations
The basking platform itself is a decent size (approximately 10.5 inches by 9 inches), suitable for most adult turtles. However, the ramp's dimensions (5 inches wide, 7 inches long) seemed too narrow for comfortable access for larger turtles.
The 'gravel chamber' in the back is an interesting design feature intended to add weight and prevent tipping. However, I wouldn't recommend using gravel due to the risk of ingestion by turtles.
The narrow ramp and potential for tipping with a large turtle led me to consider modifications, such as widening the ramp or adding non-toxic, non-ingestible material to improve the turtle's access and stability.
Installation and Tank Setup
Installing the pier in my 75-gallon tank required lowering the water level for several reasons: to provide space for the basking lamp, to prevent escapes, and to ensure the pier doesn't sit too low in the water.
I used a glass top and a Fluker's screen cover to secure the tank and prevent escapes. Additional weights were added to the screen cover to ensure the basking lamp remained stable.
Proper lighting is crucial. A basking lamp and UVB/UVA bulb are essential for a turtle's health and well-being, needing sufficient headroom above the pier.
Final Review and Conclusion
For juvenile turtles (3-5 inches), the Penn-Plax Reptology Turtle Pier is a good option, offering ample basking space and easy climbing. However, its suitability diminishes with larger turtles.
For adult turtles, the pier receives a lower rating due to its tendency to float around, the need to lower the water level significantly, and the narrow ramp. A larger tank (125 gallons or more) might mitigate some of these issues.
While the pier's assembly is simple and the basking platform is large enough, the design flaws related to stability and ramp size make it less suitable for adult turtles in smaller tanks. Consider modifications or alternative solutions for larger turtles.