Graptemys gibbonsi (Pascagoula Map Turtle)
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The Pascagoula Map Turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi) is a freshwater turtle species native to the Pascagoula River system in Mississippi, United States. Renowned for its intricately patterned shell resembling a topographical map, this turtle plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of its riverine habitat.
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Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Emydidae
- Genus: Graptemys
- Species: Graptemys gibbonsi
Common Names
- Pascagoula Map Turtle
- Gibbons’ Map Turtle
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Identification
Description
The Pascagoula Map Turtle features an olive to brown carapace adorned with yellowish lines and markings that mimic the contours of a map. The shell has a distinct keel running down the center, which is more pronounced in juveniles. The plastron (underside) is lighter, usually yellowish, with dark markings along the seams. The head and limbs display olive skin with yellow stripes, and the eyes have a characteristic horizontal bar.
Sexual Dimorphism
Significant sexual dimorphism exists in this species. Females are considerably larger, reaching up to 11 inches (28 cm) in shell length, while males typically grow to about 5 inches (13 cm). Males have longer, thicker tails and more elongated foreclaws, which are used during courtship displays.
Check more turtles from the Graptemys genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
Graptemys gibbonsi is endemic to the Pascagoula River system in southeastern Mississippi. Its range is confined to the Pascagoula River and its major tributaries, including the Leaf and Chickasawhay rivers.
Preferred Habitat
This species thrives in large rivers with moderate to strong currents. It prefers areas with abundant basking sites like logs and rocks. The presence of sandy banks for nesting and rich aquatic vegetation for feeding are essential components of its habitat.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
The Pascagoula Map Turtle is primarily carnivorous. Females, due to their larger size, consume a diet heavy in mollusks like clams and snails, using their strong jaws to crush shells. Males and juveniles feed more on aquatic insects and small crustaceans. They may also consume some plant material opportunistically.
Predators
Natural predators include large fish, birds of prey, and mammals such as raccoons and otters. Eggs and hatchlings are particularly vulnerable to predation by raccoons, skunks, and wading birds.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Breeding occurs from late spring to early summer. Courtship and mating typically take place in the water during the warmer months.
Reproductive Method
Females lay 5-15 eggs per clutch in nests dug into sandy or soft soil near the water’s edge. They may produce multiple clutches in a season. The incubation period ranges from 60 to 75 days, and the temperature of the nest can influence the sex of the hatchlings—a phenomenon known as temperature-dependent sex determination.
Conservation
Extinction Status
As of recent assessments, the Pascagoula Map Turtle is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Threats
- Habitat Destruction: Dam construction, dredging, and pollution alter the natural flow and quality of the river habitat.
- Illegal Collection: Over-collection for the pet trade reduces wild populations.
- Pollution: Agricultural runoff and industrial waste degrade water quality, affecting food sources and health.
Conservation Measures
- Legal Protection: Enforcement of laws against illegal collection and trade.
- Habitat Preservation: Protection of critical habitats through conservation easements and regulations.
- Research and Monitoring: Ongoing studies to monitor population trends and health.
Economic Importance
While not of significant direct economic importance, the Pascagoula Map Turtle contributes to the biodiversity that supports healthy river ecosystems. These ecosystems provide services such as water purification and recreation, which have indirect economic benefits.
Interesting Facts
- The species is named in honor of herpetologist Dr. Whit Gibbons for his contributions to the study of reptiles and amphibians.
- The intricate shell patterns serve as camouflage against the dappled light of the river environment.
- This turtle is one of several map turtle species with a very limited geographic range, making it particularly susceptible to habitat changes.
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.
