Water box turtle
A species of Box turtles, Also known as Coahuila box turtle, Aquatic box terrapin, Coahuila turtle Scientific name : Terrapene coahuila Genus : Box turtles
Water box turtle, A species of Box turtles
Also known as:
Coahuila box turtle, Aquatic box terrapin, Coahuila turtle
Scientific name: Terrapene coahuila
Genus: Box turtles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Lemos-Espinal J, Smith G , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Coahuilan box turtle (Terrapene coahuila), or aquatic box turtle, is an endangered species of turtle in the Emydidae family. Unlike the other members of the genus Terrapene, this turtle spends roughly 90% of its time in water.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Water box turtle primarily subsists on a carnivorous diet, with an inclination towards aquatic invertebrates. Prominently, this turtle's diet includes tadpoles, aquatic insects, and various snail species. Occasionally, water box turtle ventures on aquatic plants and algae.
Appearance
Water box turtle is a small, aquatic turtle with a slightly domed carapace that is oval in shape. Its skin and shell range from dark brown to olive-grey, with the shell exhibiting light bony growth rings. It possesses a distinctly flattened head with a sharp-edged beak and sturdy, clawed feet for digging and swimming. There are no significant differences in appearance across ages or genders.
Behavior
Water box turtle is a largely aquatic, solitary species that spends most of its day underwater, surfacing to bask on nearby vegetation. It exhibits crepuscular behavior, with peak activity during twilight hours. Known for its skittish demeanor, it often retreats into its shell when threatened. As an omnivore, water box turtle feeds on both plant material and small aquatic organisms, using its beak-like mouth.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Lemos-Espinal J, Smith G , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Box turtles Species
Water box turtle