Cyclemys oldhamii (Oldham’s Leaf Turtle)
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Cyclemys oldhamii is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its unique carapace, which features a striking serrated edge. Native to Southeast Asia, this species is often found in forested areas with access to slow-moving water bodies like streams and ponds.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Cyclemys
- Species: Cyclemys oldhamii
Common Names
- Oldham’s Leaf Turtle
Identification
Description
Cyclemys oldhamii has a dark brown to reddish-brown carapace with a serrated rear edge, which gives it a distinct leaf-like appearance. The plastron is lighter, often with dark radiating lines. The skin is olive-brown, and the head features a pattern of thin, light stripes.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males generally have a longer, thicker tail and a concave plastron, whereas females have a flatter plastron and shorter tail.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is native to Southeast Asia, including regions in Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and parts of Malaysia.
Preferred Habitat
Cyclemys oldhamii prefers slow-moving freshwater habitats such as streams, ponds, and forested swamps. It thrives in areas with dense vegetation and access to both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
It is omnivorous, feeding on a diet of aquatic plants, fallen fruit, insects, and small invertebrates.
Predators
Natural predators include birds of prey, large mammals, and humans. Hatchlings are particularly vulnerable to predation by fish and birds.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
The breeding season occurs during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early summer.
Reproductive Method
Females lay small clutches of eggs, usually buried in soft soil near water sources. The incubation period lasts about 70-90 days, depending on environmental conditions.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Cyclemys oldhamii is currently listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List.
Threats
The primary threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and poaching for the pet trade and traditional medicine.
Conservation Measures
Conservation efforts include habitat protection, anti-poaching regulations, and breeding programs in captivity.
Economic Importance
This species has some economic importance in local pet trades and is occasionally harvested for traditional medicinal practices.
Interesting Facts
- The serrated edges of its carapace help it blend into leaf-littered environments, acting as camouflage.
- Cyclemys oldhamii is known for its strong homing instinct, often returning to its original habitat after displacement.
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.