Erymnochelys madagascariensis (Madagascan Big-headed Turtle)

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Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madagascan_big-headed_turtle

Erymnochelys madagascariensis, also known as the Madagascan Big-headed Turtle, is an endangered freshwater species native to Madagascar. Known for its unusually large head, this turtle is a vital part of its ecosystem, but faces severe threats from habitat loss and exploitation.

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Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Podocnemididae
  • Genus: Erymnochelys
  • Species: E. madagascariensis

Common Names

  • Madagascan Big-headed Turtle

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Identification

Description

Erymnochelys madagascariensis is a medium to large freshwater turtle, typically reaching up to 50 cm in length. Its defining feature is its disproportionately large head, which it cannot retract into its shell. Its shell is broad and slightly domed, colored brown to dark gray, and the skin is olive-gray.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally smaller than females but have longer, thicker tails. Females tend to have broader and deeper shells, which accommodate egg production.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is endemic to Madagascar, primarily found in the western lowland river systems, lakes, and ponds. Its range includes the Tsiribihina and Betsiboka River basins.

Preferred Habitat

The Madagascar big-headed turtle prefers slow-moving rivers, swamps, and lakes. It thrives in areas with soft, sandy bottoms and ample aquatic vegetation, which serve as food sources and nesting sites.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

It is primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, leaves, and fruits, but may also consume small invertebrates. Its feeding activity typically occurs during the early morning and late afternoon.

Predators

Young turtles and eggs are vulnerable to predation by birds, mammals, and crocodiles, while adults have fewer natural predators but are at risk from humans.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

The breeding season usually occurs during the rainy season, from October to December.

Reproductive Method

Females lay clutches of 10 to 30 eggs in sandy riverbanks or lake shores. The eggs incubate for several months, with hatching coinciding with the start of the rainy season.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Erymnochelys madagascariensis is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN Red List.

Threats

The primary threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation, pollution, and river damming. Over-collection for the pet trade and local consumption has also severely reduced populations.

Conservation Measures

Efforts include habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and community education initiatives to reduce exploitation. International laws restrict its trade, but enforcement remains challenging.

Economic Importance

The Madagascar big-headed turtle has been historically exploited for food and is occasionally traded in the international pet market. However, its role in local economies is minimal compared to its ecological importance.

Interesting Facts

  • Unlike most turtles, Erymnochelys madagascariensis cannot retract its head fully into its shell.
  • This species is one of the few remaining freshwater turtles in Madagascar, with a lineage dating back millions of years.

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.