Chitra indica (Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle)

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Credit: Wikipedia

Chitra indica, commonly known as the Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle, is a large and distinctive freshwater species. It is notable for its unique head shape and soft, leathery carapace, which distinguishes it from other turtle species.

Other related species

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Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Trionychidae
  • Genus: Chitra
  • Species: C. indica

Common Names

  • Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle

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Identification

  • Description: This species is characterized by a soft, leathery shell that can reach over a meter in length. Its narrow head and elongated snout are adapted for burrowing in sandy riverbeds.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males generally have longer, thicker tails and are slightly smaller than females.

Native Origin and Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Chitra indica is found in the major river systems of the Indian subcontinent, including the Ganges, Indus, and Mahanadi rivers.

Preferred Habitat

This turtle inhabits deep river waters, preferring sandy or muddy bottoms where it can easily burrow and hide from predators.

Behavior

  • Feeding Habits: It is a carnivorous species, preying on fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects.
  • Predators: Large fish, birds, and mammals, including humans, prey on juveniles and eggs.

Reproduction

  • Breeding Season: The breeding season occurs during the monsoon months from June to September.
  • Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of 20-100 eggs in sandy riverbanks, which hatch after about 60-90 days.

Conservation

  • Extinction Status: Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
  • Threats: Habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal hunting for meat and traditional medicine are major threats.
  • Conservation Measures: Protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972; several conservation programs are focused on habitat restoration and anti-poaching efforts.

Economic Importance

This turtle is occasionally exploited for its meat and as a pet, though this is increasingly regulated due to its endangered status.

Interesting Facts

Chitra indica can live for up to 50 years in the wild, making it one of the longer-lived turtle species.

Research Studies

For a detailed study on the ecological impact and conservation strategies of Chitra indica, consider reviewing the following research paper: Notes on type and type locality of the narrow-headed softshell turtle, Chitra indica

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.