Melanochelys trijuga parkeri
A species of Indian black turtles Scientific name : Melanochelys trijuga parkeri Genus : Indian black turtles
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri, A species of Indian black turtles
Scientific name: Melanochelys trijuga parkeri
Genus: Indian black turtles
Content
Description General Info
Description
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri demonstrates remarkable adaptations for its largely aquatic lifestyle, including webbed hind feet to aid in swimming, and a snorkel-like snout enabling it to breathe while remaining submerged. These turtles exhibit a unique defensive behavior; when threatened, they release a foul-smelling liquid from glands near their tails to deter predators.
General Info
Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri predominantly consumes a diet of vegetation, favoring various grasses, herbs, and fruits. In captivity, leaves and flowers are also accepted enthusiastically. Reliant on frequent, fresh water, it implements endurance during scarcity.
Appearance
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri is a medium-sized turtle with an oval shell. Its skin and shell possess an ebony color, exuding an iridescent glow. The shell is heavily pigmented with three longitudinal keels along the top, rendering it an astonishing feature. There are negligible differences between sexes, young and adult individuals, and between subspecies, making this turtle uniform in appearance across all ages and genders.
Behavior
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri exhibits largely solitary behavior, defending its territory through urination and grunts. It is active during the day, foraging primarily for plants and fruit. Peculiar to its species, it is also known to display an aggression-free cohabitive behavior with other turtle species, deploying mutualistic interactions as a survival strategy in the wild.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Neotropical wood turtles Genus
Indian black turtles Species
Melanochelys trijuga parkeri 
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