Batagur baska (Northern river terrapin)
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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.
Native To These Regions
Bangladesh, Borneo (Indonesia/Malaysia), Cambodia, Myanmar, Odisha (India), Sumatra (Indonesia), West Bengal (India)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Batagur
- Species: B. baska
Common Names
- Northern river terrapin
- Giant river turtle
- Asian river terrapin
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Identification
Description
Batagur baska has a broad, smooth carapace that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The shell is typically olive-brown with a lighter plastron. Adults often have a distinct cream or yellow color on their heads.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males generally have a narrower and longer tail than females and turn bright colors around their head during the breeding season.
Check more turtles from the Batagur genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is native to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, and Malaysia, though its numbers have drastically reduced in most regions.
Preferred Habitat
Batagur baska predominantly inhabits mangrove swamps and estuarine environments, thriving in brackish water conditions.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
Primarily herbivorous, the diet of Batagur baska consists of mangrove leaves, fruits, and occasionally small aquatic animals.
Predators
Predators include large birds, mammals (such as dogs and cats), and humans, who hunt them for meat and eggs.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
The breeding season occurs shortly after the onset of the dry season, which varies by geographic location.
Reproductive Method
Females lay eggs on river banks, often returning to the same nesting sites annually. The clutches can contain up to 20-35 eggs.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Threats
Major threats include habitat destruction, especially the loss of mangrove forests, and overexploitation for food and traditional medicine.
Conservation Measures
Efforts include captive breeding programs, habitat restoration, and legal protection under local and international laws.
Economic Importance
Historically, Batagur baska has been used in traditional medicine and as a source of protein. However, its current economic role is limited due to its endangered status.
Interesting Facts
- Batagur baska is one of the few turtle species where the male changes color during the breeding season.
- This species can live up to 40 years in the wild.
Research Studies
For further reading on conservation efforts and biological studies related to Batagur baska, here is a link to a research paper: Ecology and conservation of the critically endangered northern river terrapin Batagur baska in Bangladesh.
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.
