Pangshura tecta (Indian roofed turtle)
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The Indian roofed turtle is a small freshwater turtle known for the raised, pointed ridge on its shell. It lives in slow-moving rivers and ponds and is often seen basking on rocks or logs during the day.
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Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Geoemydidae
Genus: Pangshura
Species: Pangshura tecta
Common Names
Indian roofed turtle
Roofed turtle
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Identification
Description
This turtle has a smooth, oval shell with a high central keel forming a pointed ridge, giving it a “roofed” look. Its carapace is olive or dark green with faint patterns, and the plastron is yellowish with dark blotches. The head is small with yellow stripes running from the nose to the neck.
Sexual Dimorphism
Females are generally larger and have a flatter shell. Males are smaller, with longer tails and concave plastrons.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
Found mainly in South Asia—especially in the northern and eastern parts of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. It’s most common in the Ganges and Brahmaputra river basins.
Preferred Habitat
They prefer calm freshwater bodies like rivers, ponds, lakes, and marshes with soft bottoms and plenty of vegetation. Areas with good basking spots like logs or rocks are ideal.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
Omnivorous. Eats aquatic plants, insects, snails, small fish, and organic matter. Young turtles tend to eat more meat than adults.
Predators
Birds of prey, large fish, snakes, and humans are common threats. Eggs and hatchlings are especially vulnerable.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Mainly from October to March. Nesting usually happens toward the end of this period.
Reproductive Method
Oviparous. Females lay 3 to 14 eggs in sandy or muddy areas near water. Hatchlings emerge after about 70 to 100 days, depending on temperature.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, but local populations are shrinking.
Threats
Habitat loss, water pollution, egg collection, and illegal pet trade are major threats.
Conservation Measures
Protected under wildlife laws in India. Some areas have turtle conservation programs and awareness campaigns to protect nesting sites.
Economic Importance
Sometimes sold in pet markets, although trade is restricted. Also plays a role in controlling pests and cleaning aquatic systems by feeding on waste and dead matter.
Interesting Facts
The “roof” on its shell isn’t just for looks—it helps make the turtle more hydrodynamic.
They can hold their breath underwater for up to 30 minutes when resting.
They often bask in groups, sometimes stacked on top of one another.
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.
