Batagur trivittata (Burmese Roofed Turtle)

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Credit: Asian Species Action Partnership

Batagur trivittata, commonly known as the Burmese Roofed Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle species. Known for its striking appearance and fascinating behavior, this species has captured the interest of conservationists worldwide.

Other related species

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Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Geoemydidae
  • Genus: Batagur
  • Species: B. trivittata

Common Names

  • Burmese Roofed Turtle
  • Three-Striped Roof Turtle

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Identification

  • Description: Batagur trivittata has a distinctively domed shell that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The carapace is typically brown or olive with three longitudinal keels. The plastron is yellowish with dark blotches.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males usually have a longer, thicker tail and a more concave plastron compared to females.

Native Origin and Distribution

  • Geographical Range: This species is native to Myanmar. It is found primarily in the Ayeyarwady River and its tributaries.

Preferred Habitat

The Burmese Roofed Turtle inhabits large rivers with abundant sandy or muddy banks where it can bask and nest.

Behavior

  • Feeding Habits: It is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, fruit, and small aquatic animals.
  • Predators: Natural predators include large fish and birds. Human activities have also posed significant threats.

Reproduction

  • Breeding Season: The breeding season occurs during the dry months, typically from January to April.
  • Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of 10-20 eggs in sandy banks along the river, which hatch after about 60 days.

Conservation

  • Extinction Status: Critically Endangered
  • Threats: Major threats include habitat destruction, egg poaching, and capture for the pet trade.
  • Conservation Measures: Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs and habitat restoration projects.

Economic Importance

While it does not have significant commercial value due to its endangered status, its role in ecological tourism and educational programs is growing.

Interesting Facts

  • This turtle can exhibit a unique behavior of “smiling” due to the upturned corners of its mouth.
  • It was once thought to be extinct until rediscovered in the early 2000s.

Research Studies

For further scientific insight, refer to the following research paper: Link to research paper on Batagur trivittata

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.