Batagur kachuga (Red-crowned Roofed Turtle)
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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
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Batagur
- Species: B. kachuga
Common Names
- Red-crowned Roofed Turtle
- Bengal Roof Turtle
Identification
- Description: Batagur kachuga has a dark brown to black carapace that is strongly keeled and a lighter plastron with dark blotches. Adults can reach up to 56 cm in carapace length.
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are generally smaller and have a brighter coloration on their head, especially during the breeding season, compared to the larger, duller females.
Native Origin and Distribution
- Geographical Range: This species is native to the river systems of northern India and Bangladesh, particularly the Ganges and its tributaries.
Preferred Habitat
Batagur kachuga primarily inhabits riverine environments, thriving in deep, flowing waters with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Behavior
- Feeding Habits: It is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, fruits, and occasionally fish and carrion.
- Predators: Natural predators include large fish, birds of prey, and mammals. Human activities also pose significant threats through habitat destruction and pollution.
Reproduction
- Breeding Season: The breeding season occurs from January to March.
- Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of 20-35 eggs on sandy riverbanks, which they meticulously cover before returning to the water.
Conservation
- Extinction Status: Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List.
- Threats: Major threats include habitat loss due to dam construction, water pollution, and illegal poaching for the pet trade.
- Conservation Measures: Conservation efforts involve legal protection, habitat restoration, and breeding programs in captivity to bolster wild populations.
Economic Importance
The economic significance of Batagur kachuga is limited due to its endangered status, but it plays a vital role in ecotourism and educational programs.
Interesting Facts
- During the breeding season, the male Batagur kachuga’s head turns a vibrant shade of red and white, helping to attract females.
- It is one of the world’s most endangered riverine turtles.
Research Studies
For further reading and more detailed scientific insights, refer to this research paper on Batagur kachuga: Ecology and Conservation of the Critically Endangered Red-crowned Roofed Turtle.
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.