Cuora cyclornata (Vietnamese three-striped box turtle)
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Cuora cyclornata, commonly known as the Vietnamese Three-striped Box Turtle, is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its striking appearance and unique behaviors. This species is highly valued in the pet trade and is often sought after by collectors.
Native To These Regions
Bac Giang (Vietnam), Hoa Binh (Vietnam), Lang Son (Vietnam), Nghe An (Vietnam), Ninh Binh (Vietnam), Quang Ninh (Vietnam), Thanh Hoa (Vietnam)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Cuora
- Species: C. cyclornata
Common Names
- Vietnamese Three-striped Box Turtle
- Southern Vietnamese Box Turtle
- Green rice turtle
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Identification
Description: Cuora cyclornata has a distinctively marked carapace with three prominent black stripes running longitudinally along a brown or olive background. The plastron is usually dark with lighter blotches. The head is olive with yellow or orange markings.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males tend to have longer tails and slightly concave plastrons, while females have shorter tails and flat plastrons.
Check more turtles from the Cuora genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range: This species is primarily found in southern Vietnam, with some populations extending into Laos and Cambodia.
Preferred Habitat
Cuora cyclornata prefers forested areas with access to shallow freshwater sources like streams, ponds, and marshes. They thrive in environments with dense vegetation and plenty of hiding spots.
Behavior
Feeding Habits: Omnivorous, their diet includes fruits, vegetables, insects, and small invertebrates. They are known to forage both in water and on land.
Predators: Natural predators include larger reptiles, birds, and mammals. Human activity poses significant threats through habitat destruction and poaching.
Reproduction
Breeding Season: Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season when conditions are optimal.
Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of 2-5 eggs in moist, hidden nests. Incubation periods vary but generally last around 70-90 days.
Conservation
Extinction Status: Critically Endangered.
Threats: Habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, and overcollection for the pet trade are major threats.
Conservation Measures: Efforts include habitat protection, legal enforcement against illegal trade, and breeding programs in captivity to bolster wild populations.
Economic Importance
Cuora cyclornata holds significant economic value in the pet trade market, fetching high prices due to its rarity and distinctive appearance. However, this economic importance also drives illegal collection and trade.
Interesting Facts
- Cuora cyclornata is known for its strong homing instinct, often attempting to return to its original habitat if displaced.
- This species can completely close its shell, offering excellent protection against predators.
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.
