Trachemys scripta troostii (Cumberland Slider)
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The Cumberland Slider is a freshwater turtle known for its striking shell patterns and lively nature. It belongs to the same group as the more common Red-Eared Slider but is native to a more limited range. This species is often found basking on logs and rocks in quiet waters of the southeastern United States.
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Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Trachemys
Species: Trachemys scripta
Subspecies: Trachemys scripta troostii
Common Names
Cumberland Slider
Troost’s Turtle
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Identification
Description
The Cumberland Slider has an olive to brown carapace with yellow stripes and circular markings. The plastron is yellow with dark spots along the seams. The skin is greenish with yellow striping, and a distinct crescent-shaped mark appears behind the eyes instead of the bold red patch seen in Red-Eared Sliders.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males are smaller with longer front claws and longer tails. Females grow larger and have shorter claws and tails.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This subspecies is native to the Cumberland and Tennessee River systems, mostly in Tennessee, Kentucky, and parts of northern Alabama and Mississippi.
Preferred Habitat
They thrive in slow-moving waters like ponds, lakes, swamps, and rivers. They prefer areas with soft, muddy bottoms, plenty of aquatic plants, and ample basking spots like floating logs or rocks.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
Cumberland Sliders are omnivores. Hatchlings eat more protein, feeding on insects, snails, and small fish. Adults eat more plants but will still eat carrion and aquatic invertebrates.
Predators
Eggs and young turtles are preyed on by raccoons, birds, and fish. Adults face fewer natural predators but may be attacked by large birds, mammals, or alligators.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Mating usually starts in spring and may continue into early summer.
Reproductive Method
Females lay 6–15 eggs per clutch in nests dug in sandy or soft soil near water. They may lay multiple clutches in a season. Incubation lasts 60–90 days depending on temperature.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Not currently considered endangered or threatened.
Threats
Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, road mortality, and competition from invasive turtle species like the Red-Eared Slider.
Conservation Measures
Protected under state laws in some areas. Efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and controlling the spread of invasive species.
Economic Importance
They are sometimes sold in the pet trade, but less commonly than Red-Eared Sliders. They also play a role in controlling insect and plant populations in aquatic ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
- The species was named after Dr. Gerard Troost, a 19th-century naturalist.
- They can hold their breath underwater for 30–40 minutes when resting.
- Though shy in the wild, captive-bred Cumberland Sliders can become quite tame over time.
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.
