BROAD-SHELLED TURTLE
DESCRIPTION
The Broad-Shelled Turtle, also known as the Chelodina expansa, is a large freshwater turtle characterized by its broad, flattened shell and elongated neck. This species exhibits a unique adaptation for aquatic life, with a streamlined body that allows for efficient swimming. They are primarily found in slow-moving rivers and wetlands, where they can often be seen basking on logs or submerged vegetation.
FUN FACTS
- The Broad-Shelled Turtle is known for its impressive swimming abilities, often diving to great depths to forage for food
- They can hold their breath for extended periods, allowing them to evade predators and search for food underwater
- | These turtles have a unique method of breathing; they can absorb oxygen through their cloaca while submerged, which allows them to stay underwater longer without needing to surface
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild, up to 50 in captivity
Average Weight10-15 kg
Average Length0.5-0.7 m
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- These turtles inhabit freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and swamps. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation and slow-moving waters.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- The Broad-Shelled Turtle is native to Australia and New Guinea.
- Continent
- Australia, Oceania
- Countries
- Australia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia
- Diet
- Broad-Shelled Turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter. Their diet includes aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, insects, small fish
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
10-15 kg
Weight
0.5-0.7 m
Length
- Coloration
- The shell is typically dark brown to olive, with lighter underbellies.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally smaller than females and have longer tails.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild, up to 50 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-20
- Sexual Maturity
- 5-7 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and pollution. Additionally, they are vulnerable to predation by introduced species such as foxes and dogs.
- Predators
- Foxes, dogs, birds of prey, large fish
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can retract their heads and limbs into their shells for protection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon