Giant snakeneck turtle
A species of Snake-necked turtles, Also known as Broad-shelled turtle Scientific name : Chelodina expansa Genus : Snake-necked turtles
Giant snakeneck turtle, A species of Snake-necked turtles
Also known as:
Broad-shelled turtle
Scientific name: Chelodina expansa
Genus: Snake-necked turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By questagame , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Chelodina (Macrochelodina) Expansa, commonly known as the broad-shelled river turtle or the broad-shelled snake-necked turtle, is a pleurodire freshwater turtle and is the biggest of the long-necked turtles. The broad-shelled river turtle is one of the oldest maturing and longest living species of freshwater turtles in existence and occurs in wide sympatry with Emydura macquarii and Chelodina longicollis. C. expansa is listed as âvulnerableâ
General Info
Lifespan
30-40 years
Diet
Giant snakeneck turtle primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates, with an emphasis on insect larvae and small crustaceans. It uses its elongated neck and sharp beak to effectively sieve these organisms from soft sediment in water bodies.
Appearance
The giant snakeneck turtle is a medium-to-large freshwater turtle with a broad, flattened, oval carapace. Its skin consists of a leathery texture, showcasing erratic patterns of black, brown and olive hues. One of its key features is its elongated, snake-like neck, which can match the length of its shell. No significant variations are seen regarding age or gender.
Behavior
Giant snakeneck turtle is a solitary, nocturnal species renowned for its unique neck retraction. Primarily aquatic, it basks on logs or rocks during the day; activity peaks at dusk when it forages primarily on insect larvae, crustaceans, and small fish. Its flat shell aids camouflage among floating debris, enhancing survival in its natural habitat. Territorial disputes are rarity for this species.
Photo By questagame , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Genus
Snake-necked turtles Species
Giant snakeneck turtle