Erymnochelys madagascariensis

(Grandidier, 1867)

Vernacular names
English : Madagascan big-headed turtle
French : Tortue à grosse tête de Madagascar

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

Identification
The species can reach a carapace length of more than 50 cm. Distinctive large head with powerful jaws. Carapace is slightly domed and dark brown. Head is often grey to lighter brown with jaws and chin lighter than rest of head.

Range and habitat
This species is endemic to Madagascar and only occurs in the western lowland parts of the Island. Lives in large slow-moving rivers and lakes.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is critically endangered and still declining because of habitat loss and collection for food and Asian medicine markets. Listed amongst the 25 most threatened turtle species in the world.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

Back to “Freshwater Turtles” page