Native Turtles Of Vietnam
Vietnam’s turtles are unlike any others. Many are found nowhere else, and some are critically endangered. If you want to learn what turtles are native to Vietnam, this list keeps it clear and simple.
Native Turtles Of Vietnam
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…
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…
Siebenrockiella crassicollis (Black marsh turtle)
Siebenrockiella crassicollis, commonly known as the black marsh turtle, is a freshwater species native to Southeast Asia. It has a dark, almost black shell and is known for its secretive nature, often hiding in muddy waters and dense vegetation. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: SiebenrockiellaSpecies: S. crassicollis Common Names Identification Description The…
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…
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 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…
Mauremys annamensis (Vietnamese Pond Turtle)
Mauremys annamensis, commonly known as the Vietnamese Pond Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle species native to Vietnam. Its unique appearance and restricted distribution make it a key focus of conservation efforts. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: MauremysSpecies: Mauremys annamensis Common Names Identification Description:The Vietnamese Pond Turtle has a medium-sized shell,…
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…
Malayemys subtrijuga (Mekong snail-eating turtle)
Malayemys subtrijuga, commonly known as the Mekong snail-eating turtle, is a small freshwater turtle species native to Southeast Asia. Renowned for its unique dietary preference for snails, it plays an important ecological role in controlling mollusk populations. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: MalayemysSpecies: M. subtrijuga Common Names Mekong snail-eating turtleMekong terrapin Identification…
Malayemys macrocephala (Malayan snail-eating turtle)
Malayemys macrocephala, commonly known as the Malayan snail-eating turtle, is a freshwater species well-suited for its unique diet of mollusks. This turtle is primarily found in Southeast Asia and is known for its distinctively large head and striking shell patterns. Scientific Classification Common Names Malayan snail-eating turtleLarge-headed snail-eating turtle Identification Description This species has a…
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…
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…
Heosemys grandis (Giant Asian Pond Turtle)
Heosemys grandis, commonly known as the Giant Asian Pond Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles native to Southeast Asia. Recognized for its impressive size and distinctive shell, this species plays a vital role in its ecosystem but faces threats from habitat loss and over-exploitation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Heosemys grandis has…
Heosemys annandalii (yellow-headed temple turtle)
Heosemys annandalii, commonly known as the Yellow-headed Temple Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle native to Southeast Asia. Recognized for its distinctive yellow markings on the head, this species often inhabits temple ponds, which contributes to its common name. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Heosemys annandalii is one of the larger turtle species, with…
Dogania subplana (Malayan softshell turtle)
Dogania subplana, commonly known as the Malayan Softshell Turtle, is a unique freshwater species notable for its soft, leathery shell. This turtle is well-adapted to its aquatic lifestyle, displaying remarkable speed and agility in the water. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Malayan Softshell Turtle has a flat, soft shell with a leathery texture, which…
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 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 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 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 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 picturata (Southern Vietnamese box turtle)
Cuora picturata, commonly known as the Vietnamese Leaf Turtle, is a rare and beautifully marked turtle species native to Vietnam. Known for its vibrant and intricate shell patterns, this species is highly sought after by turtle enthusiasts and conservationists alike due to its declining population in the wild. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Cuora picturata…
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 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 cyclornata (Vietnamese three-striped box turtle)
Cuora cyclornata, commonly known as the Vietnamese Three-striped Box Turtle, is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its striking appearance and unique behaviors. This species is highly valued in the pet trade and is often sought after by collectors. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Cuora cyclornata has a distinctively marked carapace with three prominent…
Cuora couro (Sunda Box Turtle)
Cuora couro is a fascinating species of turtle known for its unique shell pattern and adaptability to various environments. This species is notable for its striking appearance and intriguing behavior, making it a subject of interest for herpetologists and turtle enthusiasts alike. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Cuora couro typically has a dark brown…
Cuora bourreti (Bourret’s Box Turtle)
Cuora bourreti, commonly known as Bourret’s Box Turtle, is a small, terrestrial turtle species found in Southeast Asia. Known for its striking coloration and unique shell patterns, this turtle is a rare and protected species due to its declining population in the wild. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: C. bourreti Common…
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…
Batagur affinis (Southern River Terrapin)
Batagur affinis, commonly known as the Southern River Terrapin, is a critically endangered species of river turtle found in Southeast Asia. This species is known for its unique reproductive behaviors and significant cultural importance in the regions where it is found. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Batagur affinis primarily…
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…
Amyda cartilaginea (Asiatic Softshell Turtle)
Amyda cartilaginea, commonly known as the Asiatic softshell turtle, is a distinctive species of turtle known for its leathery, soft shell. It belongs to the family Trionychidae and is notable for its adaptability to various freshwater habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Amyda cartilaginea has a broad, flattened body with a smooth, leathery carapace…
Warning: You Might Spend Hours Here
I’ve built the ultimate turtle and tortoise species database. This isn’t your average turtle list. Filter by genus, conservation status, and more. How many species? Which are endangered? What’s the tiniest one? It’s all there.
