Chelodina novaeguineae (New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle)

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Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org

Chelodina novaeguineae, commonly known as the New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle, is a unique species recognized for its long neck and distinct appearance. It is primarily found in the freshwater environments of New Guinea.

Other related species

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Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Chelidae
  • Genus: Chelodina
  • Species: Chelodina novaeguineae

Common Names

  • New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle
  • New Guinea Long-necked Turtle

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Identification

Description

The New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle has an elongated neck that can be as long as its carapace. The carapace is typically olive to dark brown, while the plastron is lighter in color.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally smaller than females and have a longer, thicker tail. Females have a shorter tail and are usually larger.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

Chelodina novaeguineae is native to New Guinea, found in both the Indonesian and Papua New Guinean parts of the island.

Preferred Habitat

This species prefers slow-moving or still freshwater bodies such as swamps, lakes, and rivers. It thrives in environments with abundant aquatic vegetation.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

The New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle is carnivorous, primarily feeding on fish, invertebrates, and amphibians. It uses its long neck to catch prey with a rapid strike.

Predators

Predators include larger reptiles, birds, and some mammalian species that inhabit the same areas.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the wet season when water levels are higher, providing a suitable environment for laying eggs.

Reproductive Method

Females lay eggs in nests dug into sandy or muddy banks. The incubation period and number of eggs can vary based on environmental conditions.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Currently, the New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle is not listed as endangered, but its population is monitored due to potential threats.

Threats

Primary threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and collection for the pet trade.

Conservation Measures

Conservation measures include habitat protection, regulation of trade, and research on population dynamics and threats.

Economic Importance

Chelodina novaeguineae is sometimes collected for the pet trade and can be a part of local economies where ecotourism is prevalent.

Interesting Facts

  • This species can emit a foul-smelling fluid from its musk glands as a defense mechanism.
  • The New Guinea Snake-necked Turtle has a unique way of catching prey, using its neck like a spring to snap at fish and other small animals.

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.