Pearl river map turtle
A species of Map turtles Scientific name : Graptemys pearlensis Genus : Map turtles
Pearl river map turtle, A species of Map turtles
Scientific name: Graptemys pearlensis
Genus: Map turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By eamonccorbett , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Pearl River map turtle (Graptemys pearlensis) is a species of emydid turtle native to the southern United States.
General Info
Lifespan
15-30 years
Diet
Pearl river map turtle predominantly feeds on invertebrates, with a notable preference for mollusks and insects. Regularly searching river bottoms, these turtles primarily consume snails, freshwater mussels, and the larvae of aquatic insects.
Appearance
Pearl river map turtle exhibits a distinctively sleek, streamlined shell, demonstrating shades of olive to dark brown, often with intricate yellowish patterns. Females tend to be larger than males, their size ranging from 12 to 18 cm, whereas males measure about 8-10 cm. As it matures, pearl river map turtle's carapace becomes more flattened and its plastron gets notably concave. The turtle's skin echoes the rich color of its shell, adorned with light markings on a dark base.
Behavior
Pearl river map turtle is an aquatic species often found basking on logs or rocks. Generally solitary, it showcases a diurnal pattern, actively foraging during daylight and retreating into the water at night for safety. During their foraging routine, they display dietary selectivity, adapting eating patterns according to food availability.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By eamonccorbett , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Map turtles Species
Pearl river map turtle