Aquatic turtles face welfare challenges both in captivity, where many are mistreated due to misunderstood needs, and in the wild, where habitat loss and collection pressure threaten populations.
Turtle welfare in captivity is frequently compromised through ignorance rather than malice. Inadequate lighting causes metabolic bone disease; incorrect temperature causes immune suppression; poor diet causes nutritional deficiencies. Turtles are commonly impulse-purchased without understanding of their complex needs. Better public education and regulation of the trade would significantly reduce preventable suffering.