Chelodina reimanni (Reimann’s Snake-necked Turtle)

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Source: https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz

Chelodina reimanni, commonly known as Reimann’s snake-necked turtle, is a species of freshwater turtle that is well-known for its long, snake-like neck. This unique turtle is part of the family Chelidae and is primarily found in Papua New Guinea.

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Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

  • Reimann’s Snake-Necked Turtle

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Identification

Description

Chelodina reimanni is characterized by its elongated neck, which can be nearly as long as its shell. The carapace is usually olive to dark brown, with a flattened, slightly oval shape. The plastron is pale yellow or cream-colored. The neck is covered in small, tubercle-like projections, and the head is relatively small with a pointed snout.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexual dimorphism in Chelodina reimanni is subtle, with females generally being larger than males. Males typically have a longer tail, which is thicker at the base compared to females.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

Chelodina reimanni is native to Papua New Guinea, where it inhabits various freshwater systems, including rivers, swamps, and lakes.

Preferred Habitat

Reimann’s snake-necked turtle prefers slow-moving or still waters with abundant vegetation. It is often found in marshy areas or wetlands, where it can easily camouflage and hunt for food.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

Chelodina reimanni is carnivorous, primarily feeding on small fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. It uses its long neck to ambush prey, striking with lightning speed.

Predators

Natural predators of Chelodina reimanni include large birds of prey, monitor lizards, and occasionally, crocodiles. Human activities, such as hunting and habitat destruction, also pose significant threats.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

The breeding season for Chelodina reimanni typically occurs during the wet season when water levels are high, providing ample habitat for nesting.

Reproductive Method

Females lay a clutch of eggs in sandy or muddy banks near water. The eggs incubate for several months, depending on environmental conditions, before hatching.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Chelodina reimanni is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, but its populations are declining due to habitat loss and exploitation.

Threats

The primary threats to Chelodina reimanni include habitat destruction, pollution, and over-collection for the pet trade.

Conservation Measures

Conservation efforts for Chelodina reimanni include habitat protection and legal regulations on trade. Some conservation programs also focus on breeding this species in captivity to help bolster wild populations.

Economic Importance

Chelodina reimanni is sometimes kept as a pet, and its unique appearance makes it a sought-after species in the exotic pet trade. However, this also contributes to its decline in the wild.

Interesting Facts

  • Chelodina reimanni can retract its head sideways into its shell, a defensive behavior typical of snake-necked turtles.
  • This species is capable of striking its prey with remarkable speed, making it an efficient hunter.
  • Despite its striking appearance, Chelodina reimanni is a relatively shy and reclusive species, often hiding in vegetation.

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.