Cyclemys atripons (Western black-bridged leaf turtle)

Cyclemys atripons, commonly known as the Western black-bridged leaf turtle, is a species of freshwater turtle found primarily in Southeast Asia. Known for its distinct dark bridge connecting the carapace to the plastron, this species is often found in slow-moving or still waters, such as ponds and swamps, within forested regions.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Reptilia
• Order: Testudines
• Family: Geoemydidae
• Genus: Cyclemys
• Species: C. atripons

Common Names

• Western black-bridged leaf turtle

Identification

Description

Cyclemys atripons is a medium-sized turtle with a carapace length ranging from 15 to 22 cm. The carapace is brown to olive, often with dark streaks or spots, and the plastron is yellowish with dark brown to black blotches. The most distinctive feature is the dark bridge connecting the carapace to the plastron, which is where it gets its name. The head and limbs are generally dark brown or black, with some individuals showing faint yellow or orange markings on the head.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males and females can be distinguished by the length of their tails, with males having longer, thicker tails than females. Additionally, the plastron of males tends to be more concave, while in females, it is flatter.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

Cyclemys atripons is found in Southeast Asia, with its range extending across parts of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and possibly into Myanmar. It inhabits the lowland areas and is often associated with forested regions.

Preferred Habitat

This species prefers slow-moving or still freshwater habitats, such as ponds, swamps, and marshes within forested areas. It is also known to inhabit rice paddies and other agricultural landscapes where water is abundant.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

Cyclemys atripons is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant material, insects, small aquatic invertebrates, and carrion. It is primarily a forager, searching for food along the edges of its aquatic habitat.

Predators

Natural predators include larger reptiles, birds of prey, and mammals. Hatchlings and juveniles are particularly vulnerable to predation due to their smaller size and softer shells.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

The breeding season for Cyclemys atripons typically occurs during the wet season, which varies depending on the region but generally falls between May and October.

Reproductive Method

Females lay 2 to 6 eggs per clutch in nests dug in soft soil near water sources. The eggs incubate for about 90 to 120 days before hatching, depending on environmental conditions.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Cyclemys atripons is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, illegal pet trade, and exploitation for traditional medicine.

Threats

Major threats include deforestation, wetland drainage for agriculture, and illegal collection for the pet and food trade. The species is also at risk from water pollution and habitat degradation.

Conservation Measures

Conservation efforts include habitat protection, stricter enforcement of wildlife trade regulations, and raising awareness of the species’ plight. Some populations are found within protected areas, which offer a level of security from habitat destruction.

Economic Importance

Cyclemys atripons has limited economic importance, though it is sometimes collected for the pet trade and occasionally for food in local markets. Its role in the ecosystem as a scavenger helps maintain the health of its aquatic habitats.

Interesting Facts

• Cyclemys atripons can retract its head sideways into its shell, a unique adaptation among turtles.
• This species is highly secretive and often remains hidden under vegetation or within the mud at the bottom of its habitat.
• The dark bridge of the carapace, which gives the species its common name, can sometimes be used to distinguish it from other species within the Cyclemys genus.