The crocodile turtle is not a semi-water turtle. The semi-water turtle can live both in water and on land. When crocodile turtles were in their origin, they all lived in deeper waters such as streams, lakes, rivers and swamps. Moreover, they can stay in the water for a long time. Adult crocodile turtles can dive for 3 hours without taking a breath. In addition, semi-water turtles have the habit of drying their backs, while crocodile turtles have no habit of drying their backs. They live in water all the year round, and generally do not leave the water except breeding and preying. Although they are water turtles, it is best to build a balcony for them when they are farmed, so that they can climb up to bask in the sun and rest.

The suitable water level is different for different growth stages and different body types of crocodile turtle. Although crocodile turtles are water turtles, they should not be raised at too deep water level in their infancy, otherwise there will be risks such as choking and drowning. In infancy, the water level of crocodile turtles can be consistent with the height of their carapace, which will neither affect their growth and development nor affect their ventilation.

When they reach adulthood, the water level can be controlled at 2-3 times the height of their carapace. Because their swimming ability and body size will increase as adults, deep water culture can make their carapace develop better.