Amyda ornata (Ornate Softshell Turtle)

Conservation Status:
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Credit: Wikipedia

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

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Trionychidae
  • Genus: Amyda
  • Species: A. ornata

Common Names

  • Ornate Softshell Turtle
  • Southeast Asian softshell turtle

Identification

Description

Amyda ornata has a broad, flattened body with a leathery carapace that lacks bony scutes. Its color ranges from olive to brown, often adorned with irregular dark spots. The turtle’s snout is elongated, aiding in breathing while submerged in water.

Sexual Dimorphism

Females are generally larger than males, with more rounded carapaces. Males may have longer, thicker tails.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

Native to Southeast Asia, this species is found in countries including India, Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of Indonesia.

Preferred Habitat

The Asiatic softshell turtle favors slow-moving rivers, streams, and ponds with muddy or sandy bottoms where it can easily burrow.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

It is an opportunistic feeder, consuming fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and sometimes plant material.

Predators

Natural predators include large fish, birds of prey, and mammals like wild dogs.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season.

Reproductive Method

Females lay eggs in sandy or muddy nests near water bodies, often producing multiple clutches per year.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Threats

Habitat destruction, pollution, and harvesting for the pet trade and human consumption pose significant threats.

Conservation Measures

Efforts include habitat protection, legal protection from international trade under CITES, and breeding programs in captivity.

Economic Importance

The species is utilized locally as a source of food and traditional medicine, and internationally, it is sought after in the exotic pet trade.

Interesting Facts

  • The softshell of the Asiatic turtle allows it to move more swiftly in water compared to hard-shelled turtles.
  • They can bury themselves completely in soft substrate, leaving only their nostrils exposed for breathing.

Research Studies

For more detailed insights into Amyda ornata, a research paper titled “Ecological aspects of the Asiatic softshell turtle (Amyda ornata) in natural habitats” can be found here: Link to research paper.

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.