Indian black turtle
A species of Indian black turtles, Also known as Bengal black turtle, Parker's black turtle Scientific name : Melanochelys trijuga Genus : Indian black turtles
Indian black turtle, A species of Indian black turtles
Also known as:
Bengal black turtle, Parker's black turtle
Scientific name: Melanochelys trijuga
Genus: Indian black turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By questagame , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Indian black turtle (Melanochelys trijuga) or Indian pond terrapin is a species of medium-sized freshwater turtle found in South Asia.
General Info
Lifespan
60-80 years
Diet
Indian black turtle primarily feeds on herbaceous vegetation. Its diet includes a variety of leaves, aquatic plants, and succulent fruits, accentuated by the occasional intake of invertebrates for supplemental nutrition.
Appearance
Indian black turtle is medium-sized with an oval, domed shell that is dark brown to black in color. Its limbs and tail are muscular, encased in similar dark-toned skin. Juveniles display vibrant yellow patterns on their shells, which gradually fades with age. The most distinguishing feature is its three vertebral ridges or 'keels' running lengthwise on the shell, giving the turtle its common name.
Behavior
Indian black turtle are predominantly terrestrial, engaging in both diurnal and nocturnal activity. Known for their omnivorous foraging behavior, they consume a diverse diet ranging from fruits to invertebrates. Females demonstrate unique nesting habits, digging deep holes for egg-laying. They exhibit territoriality, mainly when males are in competition for mates. Despite some social interaction during mating, most of their lifespan is spent in solitude.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By questagame , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Neotropical wood turtles Genus
Indian black turtles Species
Indian black turtle