Cyclanorbis senegalensis (Senegal Flapshell Turtle)

Cyclanorbis senegalensis is a species of softshell turtle native to Africa, particularly known for its unique flattened shell and aquatic lifestyle. This turtle plays a significant role in its ecosystem as both a predator and prey, contributing to the balance of its habitat.

Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

• Senegal Softshell Turtle
• Senegal Flapshell Turtle

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Identification

• Description: Cyclanorbis senegalensis has a flattened, leathery shell that lacks the hard scutes found in most other turtles. Its color ranges from olive to brown, with some darker markings. The turtle has a long neck and an elongated head with a tubular snout that helps it breathe while submerged.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are generally smaller than females, with longer, thicker tails. Females possess broader shells to accommodate egg-laying.

Check more turtles from the Cyclanorbis genus

Cyclanorbis elegans (Nubian Flapshell Turtle)

Native Origin and Distribution

• Geographical Range: This species is native to Africa, primarily found in West and Central Africa, including countries like Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic.

Preferred Habitat

Cyclanorbis senegalensis prefers slow-moving freshwater habitats, such as rivers, lakes, and marshes. They are also known to inhabit temporary pools and flooded plains, where they can easily burrow into the soft substrate.

Behavior

• Feeding Habits: This species is carnivorous, feeding on fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and occasionally carrion. It uses ambush tactics, lying buried in the substrate until prey comes within striking distance.
• Predators: Natural predators include large birds of prey, crocodiles, and humans, who hunt them for food.

Reproduction

• Breeding Season: The breeding season typically occurs during the rainy season when water levels are higher, providing suitable nesting sites.
• Reproductive Method: Cyclanorbis senegalensis is oviparous, with females laying eggs in sandy or muddy banks near water. The number of eggs per clutch can vary, and the incubation period is influenced by environmental factors like temperature.

Conservation

• Extinction Status: Cyclanorbis senegalensis is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, though some localized populations may face pressures.
• Threats: Habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion, pollution, and hunting for meat are the main threats to this species.
• Conservation Measures: Conservation efforts include habitat protection, local education, and legal regulations on hunting to ensure the survival of the species.

Economic Importance

Cyclanorbis senegalensis holds some economic importance, particularly in local communities where it is hunted for food. However, this practice is unsustainable if not regulated.

Interesting Facts

• This turtle can remain submerged for long periods, thanks to its ability to absorb oxygen through its skin.
• Cyclanorbis senegalensis has a unique defense mechanism where it can excrete a foul-smelling liquid to deter predators.
• Unlike many other turtles, the Senegal Softshell Turtle lacks a bony shell, making it more agile in water.

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.