Mauremys annamensis (Vietnamese Pond Turtle)
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Mauremys annamensis, commonly known as the Vietnamese Pond Turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle species native to Vietnam. Its unique appearance and restricted distribution make it a key focus of conservation efforts.
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Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Geoemydidae
Genus: Mauremys
Species: Mauremys annamensis
Common Names
- Vietnamese Pond Turtle
- Annam Leaf Turtle
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Identification
Description:
The Vietnamese Pond Turtle has a medium-sized shell, typically dark brown to black, with a slightly domed carapace. Its plastron is pale yellow with dark blotches. The head features yellow stripes extending from the nose to the neck.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males are generally smaller than females, with longer, thicker tails and a more concave plastron, aiding in mating. Females have a broader shell and shorter tails.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range:
This species is endemic to central Vietnam, primarily found in lowland wetlands, rivers, and marshes of the Annamite Mountains.
Preferred Habitat
Vietnamese Pond Turtles prefer freshwater habitats such as slow-moving rivers, ponds, and marshes. They are often found in areas with abundant vegetation for hiding and feeding.
Behavior
Feeding Habits:
This species is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, fruits, small fish, insects, and mollusks.
Predators:
Natural predators include larger aquatic animals and birds of prey. However, human activities pose the greatest threat.
Reproduction
Breeding Season:
Breeding occurs during the warmer months, typically between April and June.
Reproductive Method:
Females lay 4–8 eggs in sandy soil near water. The eggs incubate for about 70–90 days before hatching.
Conservation
Extinction Status:
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List).
Threats:
Habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal poaching for the pet trade are significant threats.
Conservation Measures:
Protected areas, captive breeding programs, and awareness campaigns are key efforts to save the species. International trade is also regulated under CITES Appendix II.
Economic Importance
The Vietnamese Pond Turtle has limited economic importance, mainly related to its demand in the illegal pet trade and local cultural beliefs.
Interesting Facts
This species is often called a “living fossil” due to its ancient lineage. Despite its critically endangered status, it has shown promising breeding success in captivity, offering hope for its conservation.
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.
