Morenia petersi (Indian eyed turtle)

Morenia petersi, commonly known as the Indian eyed turtle, is a freshwater species native to South Asia. Recognized for the distinct eye-like markings on its shell, this turtle is relatively rare in the wild and faces conservation challenges due to habitat loss and exploitation.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Geoemydidae
Genus: Morenia
Species: Morenia petersi

Common Names

Indian Eyed Turtle

Identification

Description

Morenia petersi has a moderately domed carapace with smooth edges, typically olive to dark brown in color. The plastron is lighter, often yellowish with dark markings. A distinctive feature is the large, eye-like spots on the sides of the shell, giving the species its name. The head is relatively small, with a pointed snout and yellow streaks running along the sides.

Sexual Dimorphism

Females are generally larger than males and have shorter tails. Males have a more concave plastron, aiding in mounting during mating, while females have a flatter plastron for egg-carrying purposes.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is found in freshwater bodies across northeastern India and Bangladesh, particularly in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and marshes.

Preferred Habitat

Morenia petersi thrives in calm, freshwater environments with abundant aquatic vegetation. It prefers shallow waters with soft, muddy bottoms and plenty of submerged logs or floating vegetation for basking and hiding.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

This species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, algae, and soft fruits. Occasionally, it consumes small invertebrates or carrion when plant matter is scarce.

Predators

Juveniles are preyed upon by larger fish, birds, and mammals. Humans pose the greatest threat through habitat destruction and illegal collection for the pet trade and traditional medicine.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Mating typically occurs during the warmer months, with nesting taking place in the dry season.

Reproductive Method

Females lay clutches of 5–12 eggs in sandy or muddy banks near water. The eggs incubate for several months before hatching, with temperature influencing the sex of the hatchlings.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to declining populations.

Threats

Habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal collection for food, the pet trade, and traditional medicine pose significant threats.

Conservation Measures

Efforts include habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and legal restrictions on collection and trade in some regions. Awareness campaigns aim to reduce exploitation.

Economic Importance

This species has limited economic value but is occasionally sold in the pet trade. In some regions, it is exploited for its meat and believed medicinal properties.

Interesting Facts

• The eye-like spots on its shell help deter predators by mimicking larger eyes.
• Unlike many turtles, Morenia petersi prefers a more herbivorous diet.
• It is often confused with Morenia ocellata, a closely related species with similar markings.