Northern map turtle
A species of Map turtles Scientific name : Graptemys geographica Genus : Map turtles
Northern map turtle, A species of Map turtles
Scientific name: Graptemys geographica
Genus: Map turtles
Content
Description General Info
Description
The northern map turtle (Graptemys geographica), or common map turtle, is an aquatic turtle in the family Emydidae. It is endemic to North America.
General Info
Lifespan
15-30 years
Diet
Northern map turtle primarily has an omnivorous diet in its juvenile stage, predominantly feeding on invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans. With maturity, it shifts towards herbivory, eating a variety of submerged aquatic vegetation.
Appearance
Northern map turtle is a medium-sized turtle, characterized by a smooth, keel-less carapace that is lightly serrated at the rear. Resembling a map with intricate yellow lines, their olive-brown shell is distinct. They sport a yellowish plastron and a yellowish-olive skin. Their legs, tail, and neck display prominent yellow striping. The males are usually smaller than females with long, thick tails and shorter claws.
Behavior
Northern map turtle is predominantly an aquatic, solitary species. It exhibits basking behavior, often observed during late morning and afternoon hours, relying on solar heat for thermoregulation. Known to be wary, it retreats into the water at the slightest indication of danger. Northern map turtle feeds on a carnivorous diet including mollusks and insects, using its sharp beak-like jaws.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Map turtles Species
Northern map turtle 
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