Common Turtle Species
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Environmental.
Common Turtle Species
Turtles, known for their distinctive shells, are fascinating cold-blooded reptiles. The upper part of their shell is called the carapace, while the lower part, protecting the belly, is known as the plastron. The shape and color of these shells vary widely among species, and contrary to common belief, not all turtles have hard shells. Some, like the softshell turtles, have different shell types.
Here, we explore several common turtle species:
Clemmys insculpta (Wood Turtle)
The wood turtle, or Clemmys insculpta, is the largest in its genus. It features a carapace with raised, pyramid-like projections. Wood turtles are omnivorous, feasting on algae, moss, blueberries, mollusks, insects, and small animals like mice. Males typically grow slightly larger than females.Geochelone sulcata (African Spurred Tortoise)
The African Spurred Tortoise, Geochelone sulcata, is uniquely adapted to terrestrial life. Known for creating burrows to escape predators and extreme temperatures, this species can survive weeks without food or water. Remarkably, when given the opportunity, it can drink up to 15% of its body weight in water.Chelonia mydas (Green Turtle)
The green turtle, or Chelonia mydas, displays dietary changes as it matures. Juveniles are carnivorous, consuming jellyfish and snails, while adults are herbivorous, grazing on sea grass and algae. These turtles primarily inhabit the ocean, returning to land solely to lay eggs. The temperature of their nests determines the sex of the hatchlings: warmer conditions produce females and cooler ones produce males. Unfortunately, green turtle populations are endangered worldwide.Emydoidea blandingii (Blanding's Turtle)
Blanding's turtle, Emydoidea blandingii, is notable for its black carapace dotted with yellow. Often mistaken for the box turtle due to its appearance, it prefers habitats with clean, shallow water and plenty of vegetation. Though preferences vary, in Wisconsin, these turtles are more common in marshes. They typically nest from late May to early July at night, though not all females nest annually.Clemmys guttata (Spotted Turtle)
The spotted turtle, Clemmys guttata, is a small, black turtle with yellow spots, which may fade over time. Males have tan chins and brown eyes, while females have yellow chins and orange eyes. These turtles thrive in shallow wetlands such as swamps and marshes. Mostly diurnal, females become nocturnal during nesting. Predators include skunks, raccoons, and bald eagles.Malaclemys terrapin (Diamondback Terrapin)
The diamondback terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin, boasts a unique nesting habit by laying eggs during the day, unlike many turtles that nest at night. Typically found in estuaries and salt marshes, these medium-sized turtles have an oblong, gray to black carapace. Their diet consists of sponges, crabs, and plant material.Trachemys s. elegans (Red-Eared Slider)
Native to the southern United States, the red-eared slider, Trachemys s. elegans, is a medium-sized turtle with a dark green oval shell, green legs with yellow stripes, and a distinctive red stripe behind the eyes. Young sliders are carnivorous, gradually shifting to a more plant-based diet as they age. They prefer slow-moving waters with muddy bottoms.These diverse turtle species each display unique adaptations and behaviors, contributing to their survival in various environments around the world.
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