INDIAN ROOFED TURTLE
Pangshura tecta
DESCRIPTION
Indian Roofed Turtle (Pangshura tecta) is a medium-sized freshwater turtle characterized by its distinctive high-domed shell and a unique pattern of ridges on its carapace. This species exhibits a dark brown to olive coloration, often with lighter markings, which helps it blend into its natural habitat. Primarily found in slow-moving rivers and ponds, the Indian Roofed Turtle is known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle, spending time both in water and basking on land.
FUN FACTS
- The Indian Roofed Turtle is known for its unique ability to adapt to various freshwater environments, making it a resilient species
- Additionally, they play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to control aquatic plant growth and serving as prey for larger animals
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight2-5 kg
Average Length20-30 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, though they may be seen basking in groups during the day.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonMonsoon season (June-September)
- Habitat
- This turtle prefers freshwater habitats such as rivers, ponds, and marshes with abundant vegetation. It often seeks out areas with slow-moving water and plenty of basking spots.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- The Indian Roofed Turtle is native to the Indian subcontinent, primarily found in India, Bangladesh, and parts of Nepal.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Bangladesh, Nepal
- Diet
- The Indian Roofed Turtle is an omnivore, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, and small aquatic animals. Its diet can vary based on the availability of food sources in its habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, though they may be seen basking in groups during the day.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
2-5 kg
Weight
20-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown to olive with lighter markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females and have a more concave plastron.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Monsoon season (June-September)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Indian Roofed Turtles is currently declining due to habitat loss and poaching.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urbanization and pollution, as well as illegal trade for the pet market. These factors have significantly impacted their populations in the wild.
- Conservation Program
- Various local conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and raise awareness about their plight.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, large fish, and mammals such as raccoons and otters are known to prey on Indian Roofed Turtles.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can retract into their shells for protection and are also known to camouflage themselves among aquatic vegetation.
- Compatible Animals
- other freshwater turtles, certain fish species
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon