Coastal plain cooter
A species of Cooters Scientific name : Pseudemys concinna floridana Genus : Cooters
Coastal plain cooter, A species of Cooters
Scientific name: Pseudemys concinna floridana
Genus: Cooters
Content
Description General Info
Description
Coastal plain cooter is a renowned basker, often seen on logs and rocks, absorbing solar radiation for thermoregulation. Its herbivorous dietary habits, primarily involving aquatic vegetation, play a pertinent role in controlling overgrowth of invasive underwater plants. Further, resilient shell design affords it protection against potential predators, asserting it as an integral part of the ecosystems in southeastern U.S.
General Info
Lifespan
20-40 years
Diet
Coastal plain cooter is largely herbivorous, predominantly consuming aquatic vegetation. It displays a peculiar preference for specific pondweeds, but its diet is not limited to this, including algae and some small invertebrates.
Appearance
Coastal plain cooter is a medium-to-large-sized turtle with a round, hard shell covered in plates. The shell is olive-green to black with vibrant yellow lines creating complex patterns. Its skin is scaly and colored with elementes of gray and green, complemented with yellow stripes. The exact pattern varies throughout its life, with adolescents displaying brighter hues. Males are slightly smaller and have long, thick tails. The turtle has no horns or wings.
Behavior
Coastal plain cooter is a solitary, non-migratory species known for its basking behavior. Individuals prefer calm aquatic habitats with abundant vegetation and plentiful sunlit perches. They possess protective behavior over their nests, displaying a unique swarming pattern when disturbed. For meals, they demonstrate opportunistic foraging, with a diet ranging from algae to small invertebrates.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Cooters Species
Coastal plain cooter 
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