Native Turtles Of China
China is home to some of the rarest and most endangered turtles on the planet. From ancient softshells to forest dwellers, these species are important both culturally and ecologically. Here’s a rundown of turtles native to China.
Native Turtles Of China
Platysternon megacephalum (Big-headed Turtle)
Platysternon megacephalum, also known as the Big-headed Turtle, is a rare and ancient-looking species with a distinctively large head that it cannot retract into its shell. It’s known for its powerful jaws and its unique climbing ability, which is unusual among turtles. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: PlatysternidaeGenus: PlatysternonSpecies: Platysternon megacephalum Common Names…
Pelodiscus variegatus (Spotted softshell turtle)
Pelodiscus variegatus, known as the spotted softshell turtle, is a freshwater species native to parts of Asia. This turtle stands out for its soft, leathery shell covered in dark spots, giving it a unique appearance among softshell turtles. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelodiscusSpecies: Pelodiscus variegatus Common Names Spotted softshell turtleVariegated softshell…
Pelodiscus sinensis (Chinese Softshell Turtle)
The Pelodiscus sinensis, or Chinese softshell turtle, is known for its leathery shell and flexible body, quite different from the hard-shelled turtles we usually imagine. It’s a freshwater species widely farmed and found across Asia, valued for both culinary and cultural reasons. Scientific Classification Common Names Chinese softshell turtleAsiatic softshell turtle Identification DescriptionThe Chinese softshell…
Pelodiscus shipian (stone slab soft-shelled turtle)
Pelodiscus shipian, also known as the stone slab soft-shelled turtle, is a freshwater species found in China. It was only recently described and is known for its flattened shell and unique habitat preference. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelodiscusSpecies: P. shipian Common Names Stone slab soft-shelled turtle Identification DescriptionPelodiscus shipian has a…
Pelodiscus parviformis (lesser Chinese softshell turtle)
The lesser Chinese softshell turtle, Pelodiscus parviformis, is a small freshwater turtle native to China. Known for its leathery shell and secretive lifestyle, it often escapes notice despite its ecological importance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:This turtle is relatively small compared to its close relatives, with a flat, leathery shell that lacks the hard…
Pelodiscus maackii (Amur Softshell Turtle)
Pelodiscus maackii, also known as the Amur softshell turtle, is a freshwater species native to East Asia. With its smooth, leathery shell and fast-swimming skills, it stands out from other hard-shelled turtles. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelodiscusSpecies: Pelodiscus maackii Common Names Amur softshell turtleNorthern Chinese softshell turtle (in some regions) Identification…
Pelodiscus huangshanensis (Horse-hoof softshell turtle)
The Pelodiscus huangshanensis, or Horse-hoof softshell turtle, is a recently described species of softshell turtle found in parts of China. It was once confused with other Pelodiscus species but has been confirmed as a distinct species through genetic studies. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelodiscusSpecies: P. huangshanensis Common Names Horse-hoof softshell turtleHuangshan…
Pelodiscus axenaria (Hunan Softshell Turtle)
Pelodiscus axenaria, also called the Hunan Softshell Turtle, is a rare freshwater turtle native to China. It’s known for its soft shell and secretive habits, making it a challenge to study in the wild. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelodiscusSpecies: Pelodiscus axenaria Common Names Hunan Softshell TurtleAxenaria Softshell Turtle Identification DescriptionThis species…
Pelochelys cantorii (Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle)
Pelochelys cantorii, or Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world. Known for its broad, smooth shell and secretive nature, this species spends most of its life buried in sand, surfacing only to breathe or feed. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelochelysSpecies: P. cantorii Common Names…
Palea steindachner (Wattle-necked softshell turtle)
The wattle-necked softshell turtle (Palea steindachneri) is a unique freshwater turtle known for the fleshy wattles on its neck and its flat, leathery shell. It is a softshell species that spends most of its life underwater, using stealth and speed to survive. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PaleaSpecies: Palea steindachneri Common Names…
Testudo horsfieldii (Russian Tortoise)
The Russian Tortoise (Testudo horsfieldii) is a small, hardy tortoise known for its burrowing habits and ability to survive in harsh, arid environments. Native to Central Asia, it is a popular pet due to its manageable size and resilience. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: TestudoSpecies: T. horsfieldii Common Names Russian TortoiseHorsfield’s TortoiseAfghan…
Sacalia quadriocellata (Four-eyed Turtle)
Sacalia quadriocellata, commonly known as the Four-eyed Turtle, is a small freshwater turtle native to parts of Asia. It is named for the two pairs of eye-like spots on the back of its head, which may serve as a defense mechanism against predators. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: SacaliaSpecies: Sacalia quadriocellata Common…
Sacalia bealei (Beal’s Eyed Turtle)
Sacalia bealei, commonly known as Beal’s Eyed Turtle, is a freshwater species native to China. It is named for the distinctive eye-like markings on its head, which help it blend into its surroundings. This elusive turtle prefers slow-moving streams and is rarely seen in the wild. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: SacaliaSpecies:…
Rafetus swinhoei (Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle)
Rafetus swinhoei, known as the Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle, is one of the rarest turtles in the world. It holds the unfortunate title of being on the brink of extinction, with only a handful of individuals confirmed in existence. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: RafetusSpecies: R. swinhoei Common Names Yangtze Giant Softshell…
Mauremys sinensis (Chinese stripe-necked turtle)
Mauremys sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese stripe-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to East Asia. Recognized by its distinctive neck stripes, this turtle plays a significant role in both its ecosystem and local economies. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Mauremys sinensis features a moderately domed carapace adorned with yellow or orange…
Mauremys reevesii (Chinese pond turtle)
Mauremys reevesii, commonly known as the Chinese pond turtle, is a semi-aquatic species native to East Asia. Renowned for its distinctive shell patterns and adaptability, it plays a significant role in both natural ecosystems and human economies. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Chinese pond turtles thrive in freshwater environments…
Mauremys nigricans (Red-necked pond turtle)
Mauremys nigricans, commonly known as the Red-necked Pond Turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to parts of Asia. Known for its distinctive red markings and adaptability to various aquatic environments, this turtle plays a significant role in its ecosystem. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Mauremys nigricans typically exhibits a carapace (shell) length ranging…
Mauremys mutica (yellow pond turtle)
Mauremys mutica, commonly known as the yellow pond turtle, is a freshwater species native to East Asia. Known for its distinctive coloration and adaptability, this turtle inhabits a variety of aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Mauremys mutica typically has a dome-shaped shell with a yellow to brown coloration. The carapace features distinct…
Manouria impressa (Impressed Tortoise)
Manouria impressa, commonly known as the Impressed Tortoise, is a medium-sized tortoise species recognized for its unique shell texture. This elusive tortoise inhabits forested regions and is known for its preference for cooler, shaded environments. Scientific Classification Common Names Impressed Tortoise Identification DescriptionThe Impressed Tortoise has a golden-brown, slightly flattened shell with serrated edges. Its…
Manouria emys (Asian forest tortoise)
Manouria emys, commonly known as the Asian forest tortoise, is the largest tortoise native to mainland Asia. Known for its adaptability, it inhabits dense forests and is highly active compared to other tortoise species. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: ManouriaSpecies: Manouria emys Common Names Asian forest tortoiseBurmese brown tortoiseSix-legged tortoise Identification Description…
Geoemyda spengleri (Black-breasted Leaf Turtle)
Geoemyda spengleri, commonly known as the Black-breasted Leaf Turtle, is a small terrestrial turtle species renowned for its distinctive markings and elusive nature. Native to parts of Asia, this turtle plays a vital role in its ecosystem and is subject to various conservation efforts due to declining populations. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The…
Cyclemys pulchristriata (Eastern black-bridged leaf turtle)
Cyclemys pulchristriata, commonly known as the Eastern black-bridged leaf turtle, is a semi-aquatic species of turtle primarily found in Southeast Asia. With a distinctive brown and yellow pattern on its shell, this species thrives in freshwater environments such as rivers and streams, showing adaptability to a variety of habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description…
Cyclemys enigmatica (Enigmatic Leaf Turtle)
Cyclemys enigmatica, also known as the enigmatic leaf turtle, is a lesser-known species of Asian turtle distinguished by its unique carapace markings and semi-aquatic nature. This species is native to Southeast Asia and is notable for its elusive behavior and limited research. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Cyclemys enigmatica has a moderately domed, elongated carapace…
Cyclemys atripons (Western black-bridged leaf turtle)
Cyclemys atripons, commonly known as the Western black-bridged leaf turtle, is a species of freshwater turtle found primarily in Southeast Asia. Known for its distinct dark bridge connecting the carapace to the plastron, this species is often found in slow-moving or still waters, such as ponds and swamps, within forested regions. Scientific Classification Common Names…
Cuora zhoui (Zhou’s Box Turtle)
Cuora zhoui is a critically endangered species of turtle known for its unique shell pattern and limited distribution. This species is highly sought after in the pet trade, making it vulnerable to overexploitation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Cuora zhoui is thought to inhabit subtropical forests and wetlands, often…
Cuora yunnanensis (Yunnan Box Turtle)
Cuora yunnanensis is a critically endangered species of turtle, known primarily from a few historical records. Native to the Yunnan province in China, this species was long considered extinct until its rediscovery in the 2000s, making it a subject of great conservation interest. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Cuora…
Cuora trifasciata (Chinese three-banded box turtle)
Cuora trifasciata, commonly known as the Golden Coin Turtle, is a critically endangered species of box turtle native to Southeast Asia. Known for its striking yellow-striped carapace, this turtle is highly valued in traditional medicine and the pet trade, leading to severe population declines. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Cuora trifasciata is easily recognizable by…
Cuora praschagi (Praschag’s Box Turtle)
Cuora praschagi, commonly known as Praschag’s box turtle, is a medium-sized, highly endangered freshwater turtle species found primarily in Southeast Asia. Known for its striking appearance, this species is recognized by conservationists for its critical conservation status due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora praschagi…
Cuora pani (Pan’s Box Turtle)
Cuora pani, commonly known as Pan’s box turtle, is a critically endangered species of freshwater turtle native to China. It is known for its distinctive hinged plastron, allowing it to completely enclose itself within its shell as a defense mechanism. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cuora pani is a medium-sized turtle with a domed…
Cuora mouhotii (Keeled Box Turtle)
Cuora mouhotii is a species of turtle known for its distinctive keeled shell and secretive nature. This medium-sized turtle is primarily found in forested areas and has unique behaviors that make it fascinating to herpetologists. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cuora mouhotii has a high-domed, keeled shell that is brown to black in color….
Cuora mccordi (McCord’s Box Turtle)
Cuora mccordi, also known as McCord’s box turtle, is a rare and critically endangered species of box turtle. Found primarily in a small region of China, it is known for its distinctive yellow and black markings. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cuora mccordi has a distinctive bright yellow head with black markings, a high-domed…
Cuora galbinifrons (Indochinese Box Turtle)
Cuora galbinifrons, commonly known as the Indochinese Box Turtle, is a species of turtle known for its striking coloration and unique hinged shell. This turtle is valued both for its beauty and its role in various ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cuora galbinifrons has a highly domed shell with distinctive yellow and black…
Cuora flavomarginata (Chinese box turtle)
Cuora Flavomarginata, commonly known as the Yellow-margined Box Turtle, is a medium-sized terrestrial turtle species known for its distinctive yellow stripes along the margins of its shell. This species is primarily found in East Asia and is appreciated for its unique appearance and behavior. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Yellow-margined Box Turtle has a…
Cuora aurocapitata (Golden-headed Box Turtle)
Cuora aurocapitata, also known as the Golden-headed Box Turtle, is a critically endangered species native to China. This medium-sized turtle is renowned for its distinctive golden-yellow head and dark brown carapace. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora aurocapitata Common Names Identification Description:Cuora aurocapitata has a distinctive golden-yellow head with a dark…
Cuora amboinensis (Amboina box turtle)
Cuora amboinensis, commonly known as the Southeast Asian Box Turtle, is a species of turtle found in Southeast Asia. Known for its distinctive hinged plastron that allows it to completely close its shell, this species is popular in the pet trade and is of significant cultural importance in its native regions. Scientific Classification Common Names…
Amyda ornata (Ornate Softshell Turtle)
Amyda ornata, commonly known as the Ornate Softshell Turtle or Southeast Asian softshell turtle, is a distinct species of freshwater turtle recognized for its leathery shell and snout-like, elongated nose. This species is of considerable interest due to its unique adaptations and behaviors. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Amyda ornata has a broad, flattened…
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