Home > Turtle & Tortoise Database > Conservation Status: Vulnerable
The Black-knobbed Map Turtle is a small to medium-sized freshwater turtle native to the southeastern United States. Renowned for the distinctive black knobs along its shell’s central ridge, this species exhibits unique physical characteristics and behaviors that make it a fascinating subject of study for herpetologists and nature enthusiasts alike. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification…
Graptemys flavimaculata, commonly known as the Yellow-blotched Map Turtle, is a freshwater turtle species endemic to Mississippi, USA. Noted for its striking yellow markings and intricate shell patterns resembling a map, this turtle is a unique and visually captivating member of the Emydidae family. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Yellow-blotched Map Turtle features…
Cagle’s Map Turtle (Graptemys caglei) is a small to medium-sized freshwater turtle native to Texas, USA. Recognizable by its intricately patterned shell resembling a topographic map, this species inhabits clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams. Due to its limited range and specific habitat requirements, it has become a subject of conservation concern. Scientific Classification Common Names…
Barbour’s Map Turtle (Graptemys barbouri) is a freshwater turtle species native to the southeastern United States. Named in honor of American herpetologist Thomas Barbour, this turtle is recognized for its distinctively patterned shell and the prominent spines along its back, resembling a topographic map. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Barbour’s Map Turtle is a…
The Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a land-dwelling reptile known for its burrowing habits and its vital role in the ecosystem, providing shelter to hundreds of other species. Primarily found in the southeastern United States, this tortoise is a keystone species with significant ecological importance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification DescriptionThe Gopher Tortoise has a…
Gopherus morafkai, commonly known as the Sonoran Desert Tortoise, is a hardy, adaptable tortoise species native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Known for its resilience in arid environments, this species is well-adapted to extreme heat and limited water availability. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification DescriptionThe Sonoran Desert Tortoise has…
The Gopherus evgoodei, or Sinaloan thornscrub tortoise, is a unique tortoise species found in the thornscrub ecosystems of Sinaloa, Mexico. This tortoise is known for its ability to survive in hot, arid environments with limited water resources, showing fascinating adaptations that help it thrive in such harsh landscapes. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification DescriptionThe Sinaloan…
Indotestudo travancorica, commonly known as the Travancore Tortoise, is a unique species of tortoise native to the southwestern regions of India. Renowned for its distinctive shell patterns and ecological significance, this species plays a vital role in its native habitat. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure its survival amidst growing environmental challenges. Scientific Classification Common…
The Aldabra Giant Tortoise (Geochelone gigantea), also known as the Aldabrachelys gigantea, is one of the largest tortoise species in the world. Native to the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, these majestic reptiles are renowned for their impressive size, longevity, and pivotal role in their ecosystem. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Aldabra Giant…
The Geochelone elegans, commonly known as the Indian Star Tortoise, is a captivating reptile renowned for its distinctive star-patterned shell. This species is native to the Indian subcontinent and plays a significant role in its native ecosystems. Due to its unique appearance and ecological importance, it has garnered attention both in the wild and among…
Hydromedusa maximiliani, commonly known as Maximilian’s Snake-necked Turtle, is a small freshwater turtle species native to southeastern Brazil. Notable for its elongated neck and unique shell patterns, this species inhabits clear, slow-moving streams within forested areas and is of particular interest to conservationists due to its vulnerable status. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin…
Hardella thurjii, commonly known as the Crowned River Turtle or Brahminy River Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle native to South Asia. This species is notable for its significant role in river ecosystems and is one of the largest freshwater turtles in its range. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Hardella thurjii can reach a…
Elseya branderhorsti, commonly known as Branderhorst’s snapping turtle, is a large and striking species of freshwater turtle native to the island of New Guinea. This species is known for its robust build and unique shell structure, making it a fascinating subject for both researchers and turtle enthusiasts. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Branderhorst’s snapping turtle…
Dermochelys coriacea, commonly known as the leatherback sea turtle, is the largest and most unique of all sea turtles. Unlike other species, it has a soft, leathery shell rather than a hard one and can travel incredible distances across the oceans. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Leatherbacks are pelagic,…
Cycloderma aubryi, also known as Aubry’s flapshell turtle, is a freshwater species native to Central and West Africa. This turtle is known for its flattened, leathery carapace and its ability to adapt to various aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Aubry’s softshell turtle has a distinct flat, oval-shaped, leathery carapace, which is typically…
Chelydra rossignonii, commonly known as the Central American snapping turtle, is a large, freshwater species native to Central America. Known for its powerful jaws and aggressive behavior when threatened, it plays an essential role in aquatic ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Central American snapping turtle has a rough, ridged carapace that can…
Chelonoidis duncanensis, commonly known as the Pinzón Island tortoise, is a species of giant tortoise native to the Galápagos Islands. Once thought to be extinct, it is now considered critically endangered with only a few individuals remaining, making conservation efforts crucial for its survival. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelonoidis duncanensis is a large…
Chelonoidis chilensis, commonly known as the Argentine tortoise or Chaco tortoise, is a species of small tortoise found in South America. Known for its adaptability to arid environments, this tortoise is well-suited to surviving in the harsh conditions of its native habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelonoidis chilensis is a small to medium-sized…
Chelonoidis becki, also known as the Volcán Wolf Giant Tortoise, is a species of tortoise native to the Galápagos Islands. This species is recognized for its impressive size and distinctive saddle-backed shell, which allows it to reach higher vegetation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Chelonoidis becki is characterized by its large, saddle-backed carapace, which enables…
Cyclanorbis senegalensis is a species of softshell turtle native to Africa, particularly known for its unique flattened shell and aquatic lifestyle. This turtle plays a significant role in its ecosystem as both a predator and prey, contributing to the balance of its habitat. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Cyclanorbis…
Cuora philippinensis is a medium-sized turtle species native to the Philippines, known for its attractive shell pattern and aquatic lifestyle. This species is often found in freshwater environments and is currently facing significant conservation challenges due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora philippinensis Common Names…
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