Elseya branderhorsti

(Ouwens, 1914)

Vernacular names
English : New Guinea snapping turtle
French : Tortue de Branderhorst

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

Identification
The species can grow to a shell length of nearly 50 cm. Head scutes very developed. Shell is globally dark with no distinct markings. Yellow shell edges and belly. Elongated snout, dark head and cheeks, yellow chin with two small barbels.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in South-East Asia and is endemic to the island of New Guinea, occurring in the southern parts of the island. Lives in freshwater swamps and rivers, mostly in lowlands.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : VULNERABLE
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is considered globally threatened by pollution and habitat loss. It is also regularly collected for the pet trade and for food.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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