Elseya auramemoria (Guadalcanal snapping turtle)
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Elseya auramemoria is a species of freshwater turtle known for its strikingly yellow-hued plastron. Found primarily in the rivers of northern Australia, this turtle species is recognized for its distinct shell markings and the importance it holds in local ecosystems.
Native To These Regions
Guadalcanal (Solomon Islands)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Chelidae
- Genus: Elseya
- Species: E. auramemoria
Common Names
- Guadalcanal snapping turtle
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Identification
- Description: Elseya auramemoria is easily recognizable by its yellow to golden plastron and its dark, almost olive-brown carapace. It has strong limbs and a moderately domed shell that can grow up to 30 cm in length.
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are typically smaller than females, with longer tails and a more concave plastron, which helps in mating.
Check more turtles from the Elseya genus
Native Origin and Distribution
- Geographical Range: This species is found in the northern regions of Australia, particularly in river systems in Queensland and parts of the Northern Territory.
Preferred Habitat
Elseya auramemoria prefers slow-moving rivers and freshwater creeks with dense aquatic vegetation, often residing in areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. These habitats provide ample food and cover from predators.
Behavior
- Feeding Habits: This turtle is primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, algae, and occasionally small invertebrates.
- Predators: Juveniles are vulnerable to birds and large fish, while adults face threats from crocodiles and human activities.
Reproduction
- Breeding Season: Mating typically occurs during the wet season (November to March), when rivers are flooded and food is abundant.
- Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of 10-15 eggs in sandy riverbanks, where they incubate for several months before hatching.
Conservation
- Extinction Status: Currently listed as a species of “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
- Threats: Habitat loss due to river pollution, dam construction, and invasive species pose significant threats to its population.
- Conservation Measures: Efforts include habitat protection and monitoring of populations to prevent future decline.
Economic Importance
Elseya auramemoria has limited economic importance but plays a role in local ecotourism, drawing attention to riverine biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Interesting Facts
- This species was named in honor of its golden-plastron feature, with “auramemoria” translating to “golden memory.”
- Elseya auramemoria is known to play a crucial role in maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems by grazing on algae and aquatic vegetation.
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.
