Batagur borneoensis (Painted Terrapin)
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Batagur borneoensis, also known as the painted terrapin, is a notable freshwater turtle species. Distinguished by its vivid coloration and significant cultural importance in its native regions, it is under serious threat due to habitat destruction and exploitation.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Batagur
- Species: B. borneoensis
Common Names
- Painted Terrapin
- Painted Batagur
Identification
Description
Batagur borneoensis features a distinctive grey to olive shell and a pale to white head with three stripes. During the breeding season, males develop a brighter coloration with a reddish-pink head.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males exhibit more vibrant colors during the breeding season and have a narrower, longer tail compared to females.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, primarily along riverbanks and coastal regions.
Preferred Habitat
Batagur borneoensis thrives in estuarine environments with mangroves, as well as freshwater rivers and streams.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
The diet primarily consists of aquatic plants, fruits, and occasionally small aquatic animals.
Predators
Natural predators include large fish, birds of prey, and humans, particularly during the egg-laying season.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
The breeding season occurs from November to March.
Reproductive Method
Females lay eggs in nests dug on sandy riverbanks, often returning to the same site annually.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
Threats
Major threats include habitat destruction, egg poaching, and pollution.
Conservation Measures
Conservation efforts include habitat protection, breeding programs, and local community engagement initiatives.
Economic Importance
Locally, this species is often exploited for its meat and eggs, though this has contributed to its decline.
Interesting Facts
During the breeding season, male Batagur borneoensis undergo a dramatic transformation, with their normally drab colors turning to bright hues to attract females.
Research Studies
A key study on the reproductive biology and conservation of Batagur borneoensis can be found in this 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.