Mauremys caspica (Caspian Turtle)
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The Caspian turtle (Mauremys caspica) is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its adaptability and striking appearance. It inhabits a wide range of aquatic environments across parts of the Middle East and Central Asia.
Native To These Regions
Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Russia, Syria, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UzbekistanNative Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Geoemydidae
- Genus: Mauremys
- Species: Mauremys caspica
Common Names
Caspian turtle
Striped-neck terrapin
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Identification
Description
The Caspian turtle has an olive-green to dark brown shell with light yellow or cream markings. The carapace is smooth and oval-shaped, while the plastron is lighter in color. The head is adorned with fine, yellowish stripes running along the neck.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males are smaller, with longer tails and more concave plastrons compared to females, which have broader shells and shorter tails.
Check more turtles from the Mauremys genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is found in countries such as Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, and parts of Central Asia, often near the Caspian Sea.
Preferred Habitat
The Caspian turtle thrives in freshwater habitats like rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes. It prefers slow-moving or still waters with abundant vegetation.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
It is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, fish, and small invertebrates. Juveniles tend to consume more protein-rich diets, while adults eat more vegetation.
Predators
Predators include birds, larger mammals, and fish. Hatchlings are especially vulnerable to predation due to their small size.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Breeding typically occurs in spring or early summer, depending on the local climate.
Reproductive Method
Females lay clutches of 6–15 eggs in sandy or soft soil near water. Incubation lasts 2–3 months, and hatchlings emerge during late summer or early fall.
Conservation
Extinction Status
The Caspian turtle is currently listed as Not Evaluated.
Threats
Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and illegal capture for the pet trade pose significant threats to the species.
Conservation Measures
Efforts include habitat restoration, legal protections, and public education to reduce human impact on their populations.
Economic Importance
Caspian turtles contribute to local ecosystems by controlling insect populations and serving as a food source for predators. In some regions, they are also traded as pets.
Interesting Facts
The Caspian turtle can tolerate brackish water, which is unusual for freshwater turtles. They are excellent swimmers and can remain submerged for long periods. Their ability to adapt to different habitats has allowed them to survive in diverse regions despite environmental changes.
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.
