Eastern mud turtle
A species of Mud turtles Scientific name : Kinosternon subrubrum subrubrum Genus : Mud turtles
Eastern mud turtle, A species of Mud turtles
Scientific name: Kinosternon subrubrum subrubrum
Genus: Mud turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By hannahwojo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Eastern mud turtle is a nocturnal freshwater turtle, demonstrating a predominantly carnivorous diet which consists of small invertebrates, carrion, and occasionally algae and plant material. Perhaps most notable about this species' behavior is its unique mechanism of overwintering by hibernation underwater, serving as an adaptation against the cold temperatures of its habitat. This dynamically adjusts its ecosystem roles based on climatic shifts.
General Info
Lifespan
30-50 years
Diet
Eastern mud turtle is predominantly omnivorous, with its diet mainly comprised of aquatic invertebrates. It also demonstrates an affinity for carrion and small fish, further supplemented with occasional plant matter.
Appearance
Eastern mud turtle is a small, semi-aquatic turtle with a smooth, domed shell. Its carapace, or upper shell, displays a dark brown to black color, often with a slight coating of algae. The plastron, or underside, is typically yellowish and cross-shaped. Its snout is pointed, and the tail is long with a serrated top edge. Eastern mud turtle possesses strong, webbed feet enabling efficient swimming. No significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies are noted.
Behavior
Eastern mud turtle is a primarily nocturnal species, known for a solitary lifestyle. This turtle exhibits a carnivorous feeding pattern, which includes capturing live prey and scavenging. Unlike other species, it doesn't show territorial behavior. Adapting to its aquatic habitats, it has proficient underwater swimming and burrowing skills for hibernation.
Photo By hannahwojo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Mud turtles Genus
Mud turtles Species
Eastern mud turtle