Chitra chitra chitra

(Nutaphand, 1986)

Vernacular names
English : Asian narrow-headed softshell turtle
French : Tortue molle à rayures

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Testudines
Family : Trionychidae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.

Identification
Very large turtle reaching a length of 1.20 m for a weight around 200 kg. Long and narrow triangular head, indistinct from neck. Coloration is olive-brown to beige with dark-edged yellow wavy bands and lines on back and neck.

Range and habitat
This subspecies is found in South-east Asia, from central Thailand to Johor, in Peninsular Malaysia. Species also occurs on Sumatra and Java. Lives in large rivers with clear waters and sandy (rarely muddy) bottom.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species is alarmingly declining because of loss of habitat. It is also heavily hunted for food and sold as such in many Asian markets.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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