Pelochelys cantorii

(Gray, 1864)

Vernacular names
English : Asian giant softshell turtle
French : Tortue molle de Cantor

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

Identification
One of the largest softshell turtle species, reaching a shell length of 1 m, maybe even more and a weight to 100 kg. Shell flattened with broad edges, smooth and dark olive colored. Head is broad with round snout and small eyes.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in South-East Asia, from India to south China, south to Indonesia, Philippines and New Guinea. It is likely a species complex. Lives in inland and coastal slow-moving rivers and streams, even brackish water.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species has disappeared from most of its range because of habitat loss, pollution and overcapture for food. It is very rare throughout its range.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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