Pelomedusa kobe (Kobe Helmeted Turtle)

The Kobe Helmeted Turtle (Pelomedusa kobe) is a freshwater turtle species known for its distinctive domed shell and preference for still or slow-moving waters. It is part of the Pelomedusidae family, which includes other African side-necked turtles.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Pelomedusidae
Genus: Pelomedusa
Species: Pelomedusa kobe

Common Names

Kobe Helmeted Turtle
Kobe Side-necked Turtle

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Identification

Description
Pelomedusa kobe has a rounded, high-domed shell that can grow up to 25 cm in length. The carapace is typically olive to brown, while the plastron (underside) is lighter with darker blotches. Like other side-necked turtles, it folds its head sideways beneath the shell rather than retracting it directly backward.

Sexual Dimorphism
Females are generally larger than males, with broader, more domed shells. Males often have longer, thicker tails.

Check more turtles from the Pelomedusa genus

Pelomedusa variabilis (Variable Helmeted Turtle)

Pelomedusa subrufa (East African Helmeted Turtle)

Pelomedusa somalica (Somali Helmeted Turtle)

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range
This species is native to West Africa, with its range primarily restricted to the Ivory Coast region, particularly around the Kobe area.

Preferred Habitat

Pelomedusa kobe prefers shallow freshwater bodies like ponds, swamps, and slow-flowing rivers. It thrives in areas with muddy bottoms and abundant aquatic vegetation.

Behavior

Feeding Habits
It is an opportunistic feeder, eating aquatic invertebrates, small fish, amphibians, and plant matter. It often forages at dusk and dawn.

Predators
Natural predators include large birds, crocodiles, and certain carnivorous mammals. Hatchlings are especially vulnerable to fish and wading birds.

Reproduction

Breeding Season
Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season when water levels are higher.

Reproductive Method
Females lay clutches of 10-20 eggs in sandy or muddy nests near water bodies. The eggs incubate for about 70-90 days before hatching.

Conservation

Extinction Status
Pelomedusa kobe is currently listed as data deficient.

Threats
Habitat destruction, pollution, and capture for the pet trade pose threats. Seasonal drying of habitats can also impact survival.

Conservation Measures
Efforts include habitat protection, restrictions on trade, and monitoring of wild populations. Protected wetland reserves support this species.

Economic Importance

While not widely traded, some individuals are collected for the pet market. In local areas, they may also hold cultural significance.

Interesting Facts

Unlike many turtles, Pelomedusa kobe can survive dry seasons by burrowing into the mud and entering a state of dormancy. Its side-necked defensive posture is a unique feature shared with other members of its family.

About Author

Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.