Species Details

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Bengal Roof Turtle Did you see this animal?

Scientific Name : Batagur kachuga
Family : Geoemydidae
Order : Testudines
Class : Reptilia
Phylum : Chordata
Other Name : Red- crowned Roofed Turtle
Habitat : Entirely aquatic and restricted in the large river
 
Description : The adult Bengal roof turtle can grow up to 35 cm (14 inches) in length and weigh up to 1 kg (2.2 pounds).
The turtle has a domed, olive-green carapace (shell) with yellowish or brownish lines and markings. The plastron (underside of the shell) is yellowish with dark blotches. The skin is greenish-brown with black spots and a yellowish underside.
The species is primarily found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and marshes.
The Bengal roof turtle is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day. It is also known to bask in the sun on rocks or logs.
The turtle is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter, including insects, snails, crustaceans, and aquatic vegetation.
Females lay 3-5 eggs in a clutch and bury them in sandy riverbanks. The eggs incubate for approximately 70-80 days before hatching.
The Bengal roof turtle is classified as endangered by the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, overexploitation for its meat and eggs, and collection for the pet trade. Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs and habitat protection.
 
Distribution in Bangladesh
References:
description written by: Durjoy Raha Antu,Department of Zoology, Jagannath University,Dhaka; information source: Encyclopedia of Flora and Fauna of Bangladesh, Vol. 25. Amphibians and Reptiles. Asiatic Society of Bangladesh, Dhaka, photo credit:herpguy(www.inaturalist.org/people/), photo copyright: iNaturalist. more information please contact with us.