What does a turtle eat?

Written by Meanne | December 5, 2025

Turtles have specific nutritional needs that are crucial for their health and lifespan. A well-balanced diet prevents deficiencies, supports the growth of the shell and helps to avoid common disorders. What a turtle needs depends on the species: tortoises mainly eat plant-based food, while aquatic and marsh turtles also need animal-based food. In this blog, you can read what different types of turtles need and how you can adapt their diet to their way of life.

Nutrition depending on the species

Each turtle species has adapted over the centuries to its natural environment, and this is reflected in their eating behaviour. Tortoises mainly eat grasses, herbs and vegetables that they find on land. Aquatic and marsh turtles look for their food in or around the water and, in addition to aquatic plants, also eat insects and small fish. Sea turtles also have their own feeding pattern, adapted to life in the sea. These natural habits form the basis for the diet of turtles that are kept as pets. By aligning their food as much as possible with that natural way of life, a turtle remains healthy and active.

What do tortoises eat

Tortoises are true herbivores. In the wild, they mainly eat grasses, leaves, flowers and herbs that they come across in their environment. Their digestion is geared towards a fibre-rich diet that is low in fat and protein. As pets, they need a diet that resembles this as closely as possible. Leafy greens such as dandelion leaves, endive, plantain and rocket form the basis. Vegetables with a high water content, such as cucumber or tomato, can be given occasionally, but not too often. A small amount of fruit can sometimes be offered as a treat, but too much sugar can disturb the gut flora. Calcium is also important for a strong shell and healthy bones.

What do aquatic and marsh turtles eat

Aquatic and marsh turtles are naturally omnivores, which means they eat both plant-based and animal-based food. In the wild, their diet mainly consists of aquatic plants, algae, insects, snails, worms and small fish. As pets, they need a similar diet. Plant-based food such as aquatic plants and watercress or leaves of lettuce and endive forms an important part of their diet. In addition, they eat animal-based food such as dried or live insects, shrimps or pieces of fish. Offering a varied diet helps to prevent deficiencies and supports healthy growth of the shell and muscles.

What turtles should not eat

Not everything is suitable for turtles to eat. Food that contains too much fat, salt or sugar can disrupt digestion. This can lead to health problems. Processed products such as bread, pasta, dairy or cold cuts therefore do not belong in their diet. Fruit with a high sugar content, such as banana or grapes, is also best given only in moderation. Turtles must not eat plants or flowers that may be poisonous, such as ivy, daffodils or buttercups. By offering only safe, natural food, your turtle stays healthy and in balance.

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