Native Turtles Of India

India is home to some of the most unique turtles and tortoises in the world. From softshell river turtles to land-dwelling species, the variety here is huge. If you’re in India or just curious about what lives there, this list will walk you through all the native species worth knowing.

Native Turtles Of India

  • 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…

  • Pangshura tentoria (Indian tent turtle)

    The Indian tent turtle (Pangshura tentoria) is a freshwater species found across parts of South Asia. Known for its tent-like shell shape, this turtle is both colorful and adaptable, often seen basking along riverbanks and streams. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: PangshuraSpecies: Pangshura tentoria Common Names Indian tent turtleTent turtle Identification DescriptionThis…

  • Pangshura tecta (Indian roofed turtle)

    The Indian roofed turtle is a small freshwater turtle known for the raised, pointed ridge on its shell. It lives in slow-moving rivers and ponds and is often seen basking on rocks or logs during the day. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: PangshuraSpecies: Pangshura tecta Common Names Indian roofed turtleRoofed turtle Identification…

  • Pangshura sylhetensis (Assam Roofed Turtle)

    Pangshura sylhetensis, also known as the Assam Roofed Turtle, is a rare freshwater species found in parts of Northeast India and Bangladesh. It is small, brightly colored, and critically endangered due to habitat loss and limited distribution. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: PangshuraSpecies: P. sylhetensis Common Names Assam Roofed TurtleSylhet Roofed Turtle…

  • Pangshura smithii (Brown roofed turtle)

    Pangshura smithii, also known as the brown roofed turtle, is a small to medium-sized freshwater turtle found across parts of South Asia. Known for the dome-shaped shell with subtle keels, this turtle lives in rivers and ponds and is often spotted basking near water. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: PangshuraSpecies: Pangshura smithii…

  • Vijayachelys silvatica (Cochin Forest Cane Turtle)

    Vijayachelys silvatica, known as the Cochin Forest Cane Turtle, is a shy, forest-dwelling turtle found only in a small part of India. It’s one of the rarest turtles in the world, living a mostly hidden life among leaf litter and dense undergrowth. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: VijayachelysSpecies: V. silvatica Common Names…

  • Nilssonia nigricans (Black Softshell Turtle)

    Nilssonia nigricans, commonly known as the Black Softshell Turtle, is a freshwater species native to South Asia. Once considered extinct in the wild, it survives mainly due to conservation efforts in temple ponds and protected areas. This species is known for its distinct dark-colored carapace and unique softshell structure. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder:…

  • Nilssonia leithii (Leith’s Softshell Turtle)

    Nilssonia leithii, commonly known as Leith’s Softshell Turtle, is a freshwater species native to India. This large softshell turtle is primarily found in rivers and reservoirs, though its population has declined due to habitat destruction and exploitation. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: NilssoniaSpecies: Nilssonia leithii Common Names Leith’s Softshell Turtle Identification Description…

  • Nilssonia hurum (Indian peacock softshell turtle)

    Nilssonia hurum, commonly known as the Indian peacock softshell turtle, is a large freshwater species native to South Asia. It is known for its distinctive olive-green shell with dark blotches, resembling the eye patterns of a peacock’s feathers. This species thrives in rivers, lakes, and ponds, playing a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems. Scientific Classification…

  • Nilssonia gangetica (Ganges Softshell Turtle)

    Nilssonia gangetica, commonly known as the Ganges Softshell Turtle, is a large freshwater species found primarily in the river systems of the Indian subcontinent. This turtle is known for its leathery, flexible shell and its ability to remain submerged for long periods while relying on cutaneous respiration. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus:…

  • Morenia petersi (Indian eyed turtle)

    Morenia petersi, commonly known as the Indian eyed turtle, is a freshwater species native to South Asia. Recognized for the distinct eye-like markings on its shell, this turtle is relatively rare in the wild and faces conservation challenges due to habitat loss and exploitation. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: MoreniaSpecies: Morenia petersi…

  • Melanochelys trijuga (Indian Black Turtle)

    Melanochelys trijuga, commonly known as the Indian Black Turtle, is a distinctive freshwater turtle species native to the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its dark-colored carapace, this turtle plays a vital role in its ecosystem and holds cultural significance in various regions. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Indian Black Turtle has a robust, dome-shaped…

  • Melanochelys tricarinata (tricarinate hill turtle)

    Melanochelys tricarinata, commonly known as the tricarinate hill turtle, is a distinctive species of freshwater turtle known for its unique shell morphology. This turtle inhabits various hill regions and plays a crucial role in its native ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The tricarinate hill turtle is characterized by its distinct shell, which features…

  • 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…

  • Lissemys scutata (Burmese flapshell turtle)

    Lissemys scutata, commonly known as the Burmese flapshell turtle, is a small freshwater species native to Southeast Asia. Its unique hinged plastron allows it to close its shell partially, offering extra protection from predators. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: LissemysSpecies: Lissemys scutata Common Names Burmese flapshell turtle Identification Description The Burmese flapshell…

  • Lissemys punctata (Indian Flapshell Turtle)

    Lissemys punctata, commonly known as the Indian flapshell turtle, is a softshell turtle native to South Asia. Its unique adaptation includes hinged flaps on the plastron, which help protect its limbs and head when retracted. Scientific Classification Common Names Indian flapshell turtleFlap-shelled turtle Identification DescriptionThe Indian flapshell turtle has an olive-green to brown carapace with…

  • Lepidochelys olivacea (Olive Ridley Sea Turtle)

    Lepidochelys olivacea is a small sea turtle that is known for its olive-colored shell. It is often seen nesting on tropical beaches, with groups sometimes gathering in large numbers. Scientific Classification Common Names Olive Ridley Sea Turtle and Pacific Ridley. Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat They prefer warm, tropical waters and shallow coastal…

  • Indotestudo travancorica (Travancore Tortoise)

    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…

  • Indotestudo elongata (Elongated Tortoise)

    Indotestudo elongata, commonly known as the Elongated Tortoise, is a distinctive species of tortoise native to South Asia. Renowned for its unique shell shape and adaptive behaviors, this species plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Despite facing various threats, conservation efforts are underway to ensure its survival for future generations. Scientific Classification Common Names…

  • Geoclemys hamiltonii (Black Pond Turtle)

    Geoclemys hamiltonii, commonly known as the Black Pond Turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to the Indian subcontinent. Renowned for its distinct black markings and ecological significance, this turtle plays a vital role in its natural habitat. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Black Pond Turtle is characterized by its dark, almost black…

  • Geochelone elegans (Indian Star Tortoise)

    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…

  • Hardella thurjii (Crowned River Turtle)

    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…

  • Cyclemys oldhamii (Oldham’s Leaf Turtle)

    Cyclemys oldhamii is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its unique carapace, which features a striking serrated edge. Native to Southeast Asia, this species is often found in forested areas with access to slow-moving water bodies like streams and ponds. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cyclemys oldhamii has a dark brown to reddish-brown carapace…

  • Cyclemys gemeli (Assam leaf turtle)

    Cyclemys gemeli is a lesser-known species of Assam leaf turtle, often recognized for its brownish, heavily patterned carapace and distinctive shell shape. This semi-aquatic turtle is primarily found in certain regions of Southeast Asia, where it inhabits freshwater bodies surrounded by dense vegetation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Cyclemys gemeli has a slightly domed carapace…

  • Cyclemys dentata (Asian leaf turtle)

    Cyclemys dentata, commonly known as the Asian Leaf Turtle or the Brown Stream Turtle, is a medium-sized freshwater turtle found in Southeast Asia. Known for its distinct serrated carapace, this species is primarily terrestrial but often ventures into shallow water bodies. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Cyclemys dentata has a dark brown to black 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 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 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…

  • Chitra indica (Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle)

    Chitra indica, commonly known as the Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle, is a large and distinctive freshwater species. It is notable for its unique head shape and soft, leathery carapace, which distinguishes it from other turtle species. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat This turtle inhabits deep river waters, preferring sandy…

  • Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

    The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

  • Batagur kachuga (Red-crowned Roofed Turtle)

    Batagur kachuga, also known as the Red-crowned Roofed Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle native to South Asia. This species is renowned for its distinctive red stripe on the crown, adding a unique touch to its appearance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Batagur kachuga primarily inhabits riverine environments,…

  • Batagur dhongoka (Three-striped Roofed Turtle)

    The Batagur dhongoka, commonly known as the Three-striped Roofed Turtle, is a distinctive species of river turtle primarily found in the river systems of South Asia. It is recognized for its unique shell pattern and conservation significance due to its declining population. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat This species…

  • Batagur baska (Northern river terrapin)

    Batagur baska, commonly known as the northern river terrapin, is a critically endangered species of turtle found in parts of Southeast Asia. This species is noted for its striking shell and historically significant decline in numbers due to human activity. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Batagur baska has a broad, smooth carapace that can…

  • 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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