Kinosternon creaseri (Creaser’s Mud Turtle)

Kinosternon creaseri, commonly known as Creaser’s Mud Turtle, is a small freshwater turtle species found in limited regions of Mexico. Its discreet nature and specific habitat preferences make it a fascinating yet under-studied member of the mud turtle family.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Kinosternidae
Genus: Kinosternon
Species: Kinosternon creaseri

Common Names

Creaser’s Mud Turtle

Identification

Creaser’s Mud Turtle is a small, dome-shaped turtle with a smooth, dark brown to black carapace. The plastron is typically lighter in color and features a single hinge, allowing partial closure for protection.
Males are generally smaller than females and have a longer, thicker tail with a blunt tip, while females have a shorter tail and rounder body shape.

Native Origin and Distribution

Creaser’s Mud Turtle is native to Mexico, primarily found in the Yucatán Peninsula. Its range includes parts of Campeche, Quintana Roo, and Yucatán states.

Preferred Habitat

This species thrives in freshwater environments such as slow-moving streams, ponds, and wetlands. It prefers areas with soft, muddy substrates and abundant vegetation.

Behavior

Creaser’s Mud Turtle is a solitary and mostly aquatic species, often staying hidden under mud or vegetation.

Feeding Habits

It is an omnivore, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, algae, and plant matter.

Predators

Predators include larger fish, birds, and mammals that frequent its aquatic habitat.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding occurs during the rainy season, typically between May and August.

Reproductive Method

Females lay small clutches of 1–3 eggs in shallow nests dug in soft soil. Hatchlings emerge after about 60–90 days, depending on environmental conditions.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Creaser’s Mud Turtle is listed as Least Concern.

Threats

The primary threats include habitat destruction from agriculture, urbanization, and water pollution.

Conservation Measures

Efforts include habitat protection, monitoring of populations, and raising awareness about the species’ ecological importance.

Economic Importance

This species has minimal direct economic importance but plays a significant role in its ecosystem by controlling aquatic invertebrate populations and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Interesting Facts

Creaser’s Mud Turtle was named after Edwin Creaser, a biologist who contributed to herpetology. Its small size and secretive behavior make it a challenging species to study in the wild.