Emydura subglobosa (red-bellied short-necked turtle)

Emydura subglobosa, commonly known as the red-bellied short-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle species found in parts of Australia and New Guinea. Its striking red or orange underbelly makes it easily recognizable among other turtles in its range.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Reptilia
• Order: Testudines
• Family: Chelidae
• Genus: Emydura
• Species: Emydura subglobosa

Common Names

• Red-bellied Short-necked Turtle
• Pink-bellied Side-necked Turtle
• Jardine River Turtle

Identification

• Description: Emydura subglobosa is medium-sized, with adults reaching up to 25 cm in carapace length. Its smooth, oval carapace varies from brown to olive, while its plastron (the underside of the shell) is vivid red or orange. The species has a short neck and webbed feet suited for aquatic life.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males typically have longer tails than females, while females are generally larger in body size, especially as they mature.

Native Origin and Distribution

• Geographical Range: The red-bellied short-necked turtle is native to the rivers, lakes, and lagoons of northern Australia and southern New Guinea.

Preferred Habitat

This species thrives in slow-moving freshwater habitats such as rivers, swamps, and lagoons, with abundant vegetation and soft, muddy substrates. It prefers clear, warm waters for optimal health and activity.

Behavior

• Feeding Habits: Emydura subglobosa is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, small fish, insects, and mollusks. It primarily forages during the day and shows opportunistic feeding behavior.
• Predators: Hatchlings and juveniles face predation from birds, large fish, and crocodiles, while adults have fewer natural predators, although they can still fall prey to larger carnivores like monitor lizards.

Reproduction

• Breeding Season: The breeding season typically spans from the wet to the early dry season, depending on the geographical location.
• Reproductive Method: Females lay clutches of around 10-20 eggs, usually in sandy banks or soft soils near water. The eggs hatch after an incubation period of around 70–80 days.

Conservation

• Extinction Status: Emydura subglobosa is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
• Threats: The main threats include habitat degradation, water pollution, and occasional capture for the pet trade.
• Conservation Measures: Conservation measures include protecting wetland habitats and regulating the capture and trade of the species.

Economic Importance

This species is occasionally found in the pet trade due to its distinctive appearance and manageable size, making it a popular choice for turtle enthusiasts.

Interesting Facts

• The red or pink coloration of the plastron intensifies in juveniles but often fades slightly as the turtle matures.
• Despite being aquatic, they bask on logs or rocks near the water’s surface to regulate their body temperature.