Kinosternon scorpioides (Scorpion Mud Turtle)

The Scorpion Mud Turtle (Kinosternon scorpioides) is a small, hardy turtle species native to Central and South America. Known for its adaptability, it thrives in various habitats and exhibits unique behavioral traits.

Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

Scorpion Mud Turtle
Tabasco Mud Turtle

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Identification

Description

The Scorpion Mud Turtle is a small to medium-sized turtle, usually measuring between 10-15 cm in carapace length. Its shell is smooth, dome-shaped, and olive to brown in color. The plastron is hinged, allowing partial closure for protection.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally smaller than females but possess longer, thicker tails and concave plastrons. Females have a broader, flatter plastron and shorter tails.

Check more turtles from the Kinosternon genus

Kinosternon vogti (Vallarta mud turtle)

Kinosternon subrubrum (Eastern Mud Turtle)

Kinosternon stejnegeri (Arizona mud turtle)

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is widely distributed across Central and South America, from Mexico to northern Brazil. It is commonly found in countries such as Belize, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

Preferred Habitat

The Scorpion Mud Turtle prefers freshwater habitats, including slow-moving rivers, ponds, marshes, and swamps. It is tolerant of brackish water and can survive in seasonal or temporary water bodies during dry periods.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

This omnivorous turtle feeds on a mix of aquatic vegetation, insects, crustaceans, and small fish. It often forages along the bottom of its habitat.

Predators

Natural predators include large birds, crocodilians, and carnivorous mammals. Juveniles are more vulnerable to predation than adults.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

The breeding season varies by region but generally occurs during the wet season, when water availability is highest.

Reproductive Method

Females lay 1-4 clutches per year, with each clutch containing 1-5 eggs. The eggs are deposited in shallow nests near water sources, and incubation lasts around 90-120 days.

Conservation

Extinction Status

The Scorpion Mud Turtle is currently classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.

Threats

Habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization poses the greatest threat. Pollution and overharvesting for the pet trade are additional concerns.

Conservation Measures

Protected areas and sustainable management of wetlands help safeguard their populations. Local conservation efforts aim to curb illegal collection.

Economic Importance

The species holds limited economic importance, primarily as a pet in the international reptile trade. In some regions, it is also consumed as food.

Interesting Facts

• The Scorpion Mud Turtle is named for its defensive behavior of emitting a foul-smelling musk when threatened.
• It can aestivate during dry seasons by burrowing into mud or vegetation, surviving for months without water.
• The species’ hinged plastron allows it to partially enclose its body, providing added protection from predators.

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.