Hydromedusa tectifera (Argentine Snake-necked Turtle)

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Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentine_snake-necked_turtle

The Hydromedusa tectifera, commonly known as the Argentine Snake-necked Turtle, is a distinctive freshwater turtle species native to South America. Recognized for its elongated neck and unique shell structure, this turtle inhabits various aquatic environments and plays a vital role in its native ecosystems.

Native To These Regions

Argentina, Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), Uruguay

Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Chelidae
  • Genus: Hydromedusa
  • Species: Hydromedusa tectifera

Common Names

  • Argentine Snake-necked Turtle
  • South American Snake-necked Turtle
  • Tectifera Snake-necked Turtle

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Identification

Description

The Hydromedusa tectifera is a medium-sized turtle characterized by a long, snake-like neck that can extend up to 60% of its carapace length. The carapace is usually dark brown or olive-green with a slightly keeled surface, while the plastron (underside) is lighter in color. Their limbs are sturdy with webbed feet, adapted for an aquatic lifestyle.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males typically have longer, thicker tails and may be slightly smaller in overall body size compared to females. Females generally have shorter tails and a broader carapace to accommodate egg-laying.

Check more turtles from the Hydromedusa genus

Hydromedusa maximiliani (Brazilian snake-necked turtle)

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is native to South America, primarily found in:

  • Argentina
  • Uruguay
  • Paraguay
  • Southern Brazil

Preferred Habitat

Hydromedusa tectifera thrives in slow-moving freshwater bodies such as ponds, swamps, marshes, and streams with abundant aquatic vegetation. They prefer soft, muddy bottoms and often inhabit areas with ample basking sites like fallen logs or rocks.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

Carnivorous by nature, their diet mainly consists of:

  • Small fish
  • Amphibians
  • Crustaceans
  • Aquatic invertebrates

They use their elongated necks to strike quickly at prey.

Predators

Natural predators include:

  • Birds of prey
  • Larger reptiles
  • Mammals that may prey on eggs and hatchlings

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the warmer months, from late spring to early summer.

Reproductive Method

  • Oviparous: Females lay eggs in nests dug into sandy or soft soil near water sources.
  • Clutch sizes can vary but usually consist of 5-15 eggs.
  • Incubation lasts for about 90-120 days, depending on environmental conditions.

Conservation

Extinction Status

  • IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Threats

  • Habitat Loss: Due to agriculture expansion and urban development.
  • Pollution: Contamination of waterways affects their health and food sources.
  • Pet Trade: Illegal capture for the exotic pet market.

Conservation Measures

  • Protected Areas: Establishment of reserves and national parks.
  • Legislation: Enforcement of laws regulating capture and trade.
  • Research Programs: Ongoing studies to monitor populations and health.

Economic Importance

  • Pet Trade: Occasionally kept as exotic pets, contributing to local economies.
  • Ecosystem Impact: Help control populations of aquatic organisms, maintaining ecological balance.

Interesting Facts

  • Unlike some turtles, the Hydromedusa tectifera cannot retract its neck vertically into its shell; instead, it folds it sideways under the shell edge.
  • They are highly aquatic and rarely leave the water except for basking or nesting.
  • Their unique neck adaptation allows them to ambush prey with rapid strikes.

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.