Rio grande cooter
A species of Cooters Scientific name : Pseudemys gorzugi Genus : Cooters
Rio grande cooter, A species of Cooters
Scientific name: Pseudemys gorzugi
Genus: Cooters
Content
Description General Info
Photo By calebhelsel , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Rio Grande cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi ) is a species of turtle in the family Emydidae.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Rio grande cooter's diet is predominantly herbivorous, with a primary emphasis on various aquatic vegetation, encompassing roots, shoots, and leaves. Despite this, it may periodically ingest small invertebrates, supplementing its vegetable-based diet.
Appearance
Rio grande cooter is a medium to large-sized turtle, having a broad, flattened shell with a ridged, keel-like center. Its carapace is typically dark brown speckled with faint lighter markings, while the plastron is uniformly pale yellow. This species lack any distinct tail, horn or wing features. Both males and females sport identical color patterns, with no dramatic changes as they age.
Behavior
Rio grande cooter displays semi-aquatic lifestyle, spending a significant time in slow-moving water bodies. This solitary species demonstrates a notable preference for basking during daylight hours to regulate body temperature. Distinctively, males of rio grande cooter exhibit aggressive territorial pursuit and display toward perceived rivals. Rio grande cooter is omnivorous with a diet primarily comprised of aquatic vegetation and carrion.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Cooters Species
Rio grande cooter 
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