Alligator snapping turtle
A species of Alligator snapping turtles Scientific name : Macrochelys temminckii Genus : Alligator snapping turtles
Alligator snapping turtle, A species of Alligator snapping turtles
Scientific name: Macrochelys temminckii
Genus: Alligator snapping turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is a species of turtle in the family Chelydridae, native to freshwater habitats in the United States. M. temminckii is one of the heaviest freshwater turtles in the world. It is often associated with, but not closely related to, the common snapping turtle, which is in the genus Chelydra. The specific epithet temminckii is in honor of Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck.
General Info
Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Alligator snapping turtle' primarily feeds on fish, exhibiting a preference for catfish. This species has an opportunistic feeding behavior, also consuming carrion, amphibians, and waterfowl as supplementary food sources.
Appearance
The alligator snapping turtle is a sizable aquatic turtle with a rough and spiky shell. It has three prominent ridges across its brown to dark green shell, giving it a prehistoric look. Its heavy head is adorned with a long, protruding snout resembling a worm, utilized to lure prey. Juveniles tend to exhibit more vibrant colors and pronounced ridges on shells than adults. No prominent differences in appearance exist between genders.
Behavior
Alligator snapping turtle is fundamentally solitary, demonstrating aggressive territorial behavior and night-time predation. This species is largely immobile during the day, hiding within water bodies, and forages for food at night. Alligator snapping turtle's powerful jaws and tool-like neck serve adaptation functions in predatory behavior, aiding survival in its natural aquatic habitat.
Photo By U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Snapping turtles Species
Alligator snapping turtle 
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