Phrynops williamsi (Williams’ side-necked turtle)
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Phrynops williamsi, also known as Williams’ side-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to parts of South America. It belongs to the Chelidae family, known for their sideways-folding necks and aquatic lifestyles.
Native To These Regions
Acre (Brazil), Beni (Bolivia), Cochabamba (Bolivia), La Paz (Bolivia), Mato Grosso (Brazil), Mato Grosso do Sul (Brazil), Pando (Bolivia), Rondônia (Brazil), Santa Cruz (Bolivia)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Chelidae
Genus: Phrynops
Species: Phrynops williamsi
Common Names
Williams’ side-necked turtle
Tartaruga-de-cabeça-larga (in Portuguese)
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Identification
Description
Phrynops williamsi has a broad, flattened head with a long snout and webbed feet. The carapace is oval and dark-colored, often brown or gray, with a smoother texture in adults. The plastron is lighter and more flexible. Like other side-necked turtles, it tucks its head sideways beneath the shell.
Sexual Dimorphism
Females tend to be larger than males. Males usually have longer and thicker tails.
Check more turtles from the Phrynops genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is found in southeastern Brazil, particularly in the Paraná and São Francisco river basins.
Preferred Habitat
Phrynops williamsi lives in slow-moving freshwater environments such as rivers, streams, and flooded forests. It prefers habitats with soft bottoms and dense aquatic vegetation.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
It is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet includes aquatic invertebrates, fish, carrion, and plant matter.
Predators
Young turtles face threats from birds, large fish, and mammals. Adults have fewer predators but may fall prey to humans and large carnivores.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Breeding typically occurs during the warmer months, often in late spring or summer.
Reproductive Method
Females lay eggs in sandy or muddy banks. Clutch sizes can vary, and the eggs hatch after several weeks of incubation.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
Threats
Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, dam construction, and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Conservation Measures
Some populations are protected under Brazilian law. Conservation groups are working to preserve river habitats and educate local communities.
Economic Importance
This turtle has minor importance in the pet trade. It is not widely used for food or other commercial purposes.
Interesting Facts
Williams’ side-necked turtle is named in honor of Ernest E. Williams, a well-known herpetologist. Like other Chelids, it cannot pull its head straight into its shell—it folds it sideways instead.
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.
