Graptemys ouachitensis (Ouachita Map Turtle)
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The Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis) is a freshwater turtle native to the central United States. Recognizable by the intricate, map-like patterns on its shell and distinctive yellow markings, this species thrives in rivers and streams with abundant basking sites.
Native To These Regions
Alabama (USA), Arkansas (USA), Illinois (USA), Indiana (USA), Iowa (USA), Kansas (USA), Kentucky (USA), Louisiana (USA), Minnesota (USA), Mississippi (USA), Missouri (USA), New York (USA), Ohio (USA), Oklahoma (USA), Ontario (Canada), Pennsylvania (USA), Tennessee (USA), Texas (USA), West Virginia (USA), Wisconsin (USA)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Emydidae
- Genus: Graptemys
- Species: G. ouachitensis
Common Names
- Ouachita Map Turtle
- Map Turtle
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Identification
Description
The Ouachita Map Turtle features a keeled carapace with serrated hind edges and intricate patterns resembling contour lines on a map. Its skin is olive to brown with yellow stripes, and it has prominent yellow spots behind each eye.
Sexual Dimorphism
Females are significantly larger than males, often reaching up to 10 inches in shell length, while males typically grow to about 5 inches. Males have longer, thicker tails and elongated front claws used during courtship.
Check more turtles from the Graptemys genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is found throughout the central United States, particularly in the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio River systems. Its range extends from Texas and Louisiana northward to Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Preferred Habitat
Ouachita Map Turtles inhabit rivers and streams with moderate to fast currents. They prefer areas with abundant basking sites such as logs and rocks, and soft bottoms rich in vegetation.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
They are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and plant matter. Females tend to consume more mollusks due to their stronger jaws, while males focus on insects.
Predators
Predators include raccoons, large fish, birds, and occasionally humans. Hatchlings and juveniles are more vulnerable due to their smaller size.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Breeding occurs in spring and fall. Courtship and mating take place in the water.
Reproductive Method
Females lay 5-15 eggs per clutch on sandy or soft soil banks. They may produce multiple clutches in a season. Incubation lasts about 75-85 days.
Conservation
Extinction Status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Threats
- Habitat destruction and alteration
- Pollution and water contamination
- Illegal collection for the pet trade
Conservation Measures
- Protection of natural habitats
- Regulations on commercial collection and trade
- Public education and awareness programs
Economic Importance
While not a major economic species, Ouachita Map Turtles are sometimes sold in the pet trade. They contribute to ecological balance by controlling insect and mollusk populations.
Interesting Facts
- The species is named after the Ouachita River in Arkansas.
- Map turtles get their name from the unique patterns on their shells, resembling the contours of a map.
- Females develop stronger jaws over time to consume harder-shelled prey, showcasing an adaptation to their diet.
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.
