Palea steindachner (Wattle-necked softshell turtle)

The wattle-necked softshell turtle (Palea steindachneri) is a unique freshwater turtle known for the fleshy wattles on its neck and its flat, leathery shell. It is a softshell species that spends most of its life underwater, using stealth and speed to survive.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Trionychidae
Genus: Palea
Species: Palea steindachneri

Common Names

Wattle-necked softshell turtle
Steindachner’s softshell turtle
Chinese softshell turtle (not to be confused with Pelodiscus sinensis)

Identification

Description
This turtle has a broad, flat shell with a leathery texture instead of hard scutes. The skin is olive to dark brown, sometimes with faint spots or blotches. Its most striking feature is the presence of fleshy lobes or “wattles” on the neck. It also has a long snorkel-like snout and webbed limbs adapted for swimming.

Sexual Dimorphism
Females are usually larger than males, with a broader carapace. Males often have a longer and thicker tail.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range
This species is native to Southeast Asia, especially southern China, northern Vietnam, Laos, and parts of Thailand. It may also be found in nearby regions due to trade and farming.

Preferred Habitat

It prefers slow-moving or still freshwater habitats like rivers, ponds, and marshes. It tends to bury itself in the mud or sand at the bottom, waiting for prey.

Behavior

Feeding Habits
The wattle-necked softshell turtle is carnivorous. It feeds on fish, insects, crustaceans, and sometimes small amphibians. It uses an ambush strategy, staying hidden in the substrate and striking quickly when prey passes by.

Predators
Juveniles are vulnerable to birds, large fish, and mammals. Adults face fewer natural threats but are heavily hunted by humans.

Reproduction

Breeding Season
Breeding typically takes place during the warmer months, often from spring to early summer.

Reproductive Method
It is oviparous. Females lay eggs in sandy or muddy banks. The clutch size and incubation period can vary but usually ranges from 20–30 eggs per nest.

Conservation

Extinction Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List)

Threats
Overharvesting for the pet trade and food markets is a major threat. Habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization also plays a big role in its decline.

Conservation Measures
Some protected breeding programs exist, and it is listed in CITES Appendix II. However, enforcement remains weak in many areas. Conservationists call for stronger habitat protection and restrictions on trade.

Economic Importance

This species has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is also farmed and sold as food. Its value in the pet trade adds economic interest, though this also fuels illegal collection.

Interesting Facts

• Despite being a freshwater turtle, it can hold its breath underwater for hours.
• Its soft shell allows it to move faster in water than most hard-shelled turtles.
• The wattle-necked feature is rare among turtles, making it easily identifiable.