Mauremys sinensis

(Gray, 1834)

Vernacular names
English : Chinese stripe-necked turtle
French : Emyde au cou strié

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Testudines
Family : Geoemydidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
One of the largest members of its genus, reaching up to 30 cm in shell length. Shell black with red-brown blotches on sides and center. Plastron yellow with black blotches. Head and neck greenish, covered with black-edged yellow bands.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Taiwan, south China, nearby north Vietnam and Laos, Hainan and Hong Kong. Lives in lowland marshes, slow-moving streams and lakes, in shallow waters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is heavily exploited for its meat and for animal trade, especially in Vietnam and China. Taiwanese population seems more stable so far.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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