Mississippi map turtle
A species of Map turtles Scientific name : Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii Genus : Map turtles
Mississippi map turtle, A species of Map turtles
Scientific name: Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii
Genus: Map turtles
Content
Description General Info
Description
Mississippi map turtle is a freshwater turtle species found primarily in river environments. Fascinatingly, it exhibits a keen adaptability for feeding; it has evolved to be an opportunistic predator, relying heavily on dead fish and decaying matter. Mississippi map turtle also displays a unique behavior during reproduction, as females often travel substantial distances away from water to find the perfect nesting site, demonstrating an innate sense of habitat fidelity.
General Info
Lifespan
15-30 years
Diet
Mississippi map turtle is an omnivorous turtle species, preferring to consume crustaceans as its principal diet. It relishes snails, insects, aquatic plant material, worms, and occasionally small fish, compatibly incorporating animal and plant matter in its diet.
Appearance
Mississippi map turtle is a medium-sized turtle species, typically reaching lengths of 9.5-28 cm. Its robust, variably rounded shell, called a carapace, is vividly decorated with yellow map-like patterns against a dark background. It has a relatively short tail and smooth skin with yellow and green markings. Both sexes have similar appearances, although mature females are generally larger than males. Younger individuals have more vibrant coloration and bolder patterns.
Behavior
Mississippi map turtle is a semi-aquatic turtle with documented basking and foraging habits. It navigates its freshwater habitat largely solitarily but congregates during mating seasons. Known for its prominent territorial behavior, it robustly defends turf against other males. This species exhibit distinct hibernation behavior as part of its survival adaptation during freezing seasons.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Map turtles Species
Mississippi map turtle 
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