Pelodiscus maackii (Amur Softshell Turtle)
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Pelodiscus maackii, also known as the Amur softshell turtle, is a freshwater species native to East Asia. With its smooth, leathery shell and fast-swimming skills, it stands out from other hard-shelled turtles.
Native To These Regions
Amur River Basin (Russia, China, Heilongjiang (China), Jilin (China), Liaoning (China), Primorsky Krai (Russia)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Trionychidae
Genus: Pelodiscus
Species: Pelodiscus maackii
Common Names
Amur softshell turtle
Northern Chinese softshell turtle (in some regions)
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Identification
Description
This turtle has a flat, round, and soft shell, olive to brown in color, often with dark spots or mottling. Its skin is smooth and rubbery, with a long neck and an extended snorkel-like nose for breathing at the water’s surface.
Sexual Dimorphism
Females tend to grow larger than males, often reaching up to 30 cm (about 12 inches) in shell length, while males stay smaller with a longer tail.
Check more turtles from the Pelodiscus genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
Pelodiscus maackii is found mainly in the Russian Far East, northeastern China, and the Korean Peninsula. Its range overlaps with other Pelodiscus species, sometimes causing confusion in identification.
Preferred Habitat
It prefers slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds with sandy or muddy bottoms where it can easily bury itself. The species thrives in warm, temperate climates and needs soft substrate for hiding and nesting.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
Carnivorous by nature, it feeds on fish, insects, mollusks, and sometimes plant material. It often ambushes prey from the bottom, using its long neck to strike quickly.
Predators
Birds of prey, larger fish, and humans are its main predators. Hatchlings are especially vulnerable to aquatic birds and fish.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Mating usually occurs in late spring to early summer when water temperatures rise.
Reproductive Method
Females lay eggs in sandy banks near water. Clutches can contain 10-30 eggs, which hatch after about 60-70 days, depending on temperature.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Currently, Pelodiscus maackii is not evaluated separately by the IUCN but is often grouped under the broader Pelodiscus species, many of which face pressure from habitat loss and overexploitation.
Threats
Habitat destruction, pollution, and overharvesting for food markets and traditional medicine pose significant risks. Hybridization with other softshell species in captivity also threatens genetic purity.
Conservation Measures
Some regions have started regulating harvests and setting up protected habitats. Captive breeding programs exist but often focus on related Pelodiscus species.
Economic Importance
This turtle is heavily traded in East Asia for its meat and use in traditional medicine. It is farmed in large numbers, especially in China, contributing to local economies but also raising concerns about sustainability.
Interesting Facts
Pelodiscus maackii can breathe through its skin and throat lining, allowing it to stay submerged for long periods. Its flexible shell helps it squeeze into tight hiding spots, making it a master of escape.
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.
