Pelomedusa galeata (South African helmeted terrapin)

The South African helmeted terrapin, Pelomedusa galeata, is a freshwater turtle found in southern Africa. Known for its domed shell and ability to thrive in temporary water bodies, it’s a resilient species adapted to challenging environments.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Pelomedusidae
Genus: Pelomedusa
Species: Pelomedusa galeata

Common Names

South African helmeted terrapin
Galeata terrapin

This Hilarious Turtle Book Might Know Your Pet Better Than You Do

Let’s be real—most turtle care guides feel like reading a textbook written by a sleep-deprived zookeeper.

This one’s not that.

Told from the snarky point of view of a grumpy, judgmental turtle, 21 Turtle Truths You’ll Never Read in a Care Guide is packed with sarcasm, sass, and surprisingly useful insights.

And hey—you don’t have to commit to the whole thing just yet.

Grab 2 free truths from the ebook and get a taste of what your turtle really thinks about your setup, your food choices, and that weird plastic palm tree.

It’s funny, it’s honest, and if you’ve ever owned a turtle who glares at you like you’re the problem—you’ll feel seen.

Identification

Description
This species has a domed, oval-shaped carapace that can range from olive to dark brown, often with lighter markings. The plastron (underside) is pale and lacks hinges. It has a broad, flat head with large eyes and a hooked upper jaw.

Sexual Dimorphism
Males are smaller than females but have longer, thicker tails. Females are larger, likely to accommodate egg production.

Check more turtles from the Pelomedusa genus

Pelomedusa variabilis (Variable Helmeted Turtle)

Pelomedusa subrufa (East African Helmeted Turtle)

Pelomedusa somalica (Somali Helmeted Turtle)

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range
Pelomedusa galeata is native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

Preferred Habitat

It prefers freshwater habitats like ponds, swamps, marshes, and slow-moving rivers. It is well-adapted to ephemeral water bodies and can aestivate in mud during dry seasons.

Behavior

Feeding Habits
It is an opportunistic feeder, eating insects, small fish, amphibians, carrion, and aquatic plants. This diet helps it survive in variable environments.

Predators
Birds of prey, crocodiles, large fish, and humans are among its primary predators.

Reproduction

Breeding Season
Breeding typically takes place during the rainy season when water bodies are full.

Reproductive Method
Females lay clutches of 6-20 eggs in sandy soil near water. Incubation lasts several months, depending on temperature.

Conservation

Extinction Status
Currently, Pelomedusa galeata is not listed as threatened. It is considered of Least Concern.

Threats
Habitat loss due to agriculture, pollution, and drought pose risks. Some local harvesting for traditional medicine also occurs.

Conservation Measures
Protected areas and wetland conservation indirectly support this species. Monitoring of habitat changes is essential for its continued survival.

Economic Importance

It plays a minor role in local economies through the pet trade and traditional medicine. Its role in ecosystems as both predator and prey helps maintain balance.

Interesting Facts

This species can survive long periods without water by burrowing into mud and entering a dormant state. It’s part of an ancient lineage, with roots tracing back millions of years.

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.