Chelodina steindachneri (Steindachner’s Turtle)

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Chelodina steindachneri, commonly known as Steindachner’s Snake-necked Turtle, is a fascinating species of freshwater turtle known for its distinctive long neck and unique ecological adaptations. This species is native to Australia and plays a vital role in its freshwater ecosystems.

Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

  • Steindachner’s Snake-necked Turtle
  • Dinner plate turtle
  • Steindachner’s flat-shell turtle

Identification

Description

Chelodina steindachneri is characterized by its elongated neck, which can be as long as or longer than its carapace. The carapace is typically dark brown to black, with a slightly flattened appearance, and can reach up to 25 cm in length. The plastron is lighter, usually yellowish, with darker seams.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally smaller than females and possess longer, thicker tails. Females tend to have a more rounded carapace and are larger in size to accommodate egg production.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is endemic to Western Australia, primarily found in the Pilbara region and other nearby areas. It inhabits rivers, swamps, and seasonal water bodies within this region.

Preferred Habitat

Chelodina steindachneri prefers slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as swamps, billabongs, and slow-flowing rivers. It is well adapted to arid environments, where it can survive in temporary water bodies during the wet season.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

This species is carnivorous, primarily feeding on small aquatic invertebrates, fish, and amphibians. Its long neck allows it to strike quickly at prey in the water.

Predators

Natural predators of Chelodina steindachneri include larger reptiles, birds of prey, and some mammals. Eggs and juveniles are particularly vulnerable to predation by various predators, including foxes and birds.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the wet season, which can vary depending on the specific region within Western Australia.

Reproductive Method

Females lay clutches of up to 10 eggs, usually in sandy or soft soil near water bodies. The eggs incubate for several months before hatching, with the temperature of the nest influencing the sex of the hatchlings.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Chelodina steindachneri is currently not listed as endangered or threatened. However, it faces challenges due to habitat degradation.

Threats

Key threats include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, pollution, and predation by introduced species like foxes. Climate change, affecting water availability, also poses a risk.

Conservation Measures

Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, monitoring populations, and controlling introduced predators. Protected areas and reserves within its range provide crucial safe habitats for this species.

Economic Importance

Chelodina steindachneri has limited direct economic importance but plays a crucial ecological role in controlling aquatic invertebrate populations and maintaining the balance within its freshwater habitats.

Interesting Facts

  • Chelodina steindachneri can retract its head sideways under its shell, unlike most turtles that retract it straight back.
  • This turtle species is known for its ability to aestivate during dry periods, surviving in a dormant state until water returns to its habitat.

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.