PAN’S BOX TURTLE
Cuora pani
DESCRIPTION
Pan’s Box Turtle (Cuora pani) is a medium-sized turtle characterized by its high-domed shell and distinctive coloration, which typically features a dark brown or black background with yellow or orange markings. This species is primarily found in freshwater habitats, where it exhibits a semi-aquatic lifestyle, often basking on rocks or logs. Behaviorally, Pan’s Box Turtles are known for their shy and reclusive nature, often retreating into their shells when threatened.
FUN FACTS
- Pan’s Box Turtle is named after the Chinese zoologist who first described the species, highlighting its significance in herpetology
- | This turtle is known for its unique ability to adapt to various freshwater habitats, showcasing its ecological versatility and resilience
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in captivity
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length15-25 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- This species inhabits freshwater environments such as rivers, streams, and ponds, often favoring areas with abundant vegetation. They require both aquatic and terrestrial habitats for foraging and basking.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- Pan’s Box Turtle is native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in regions of Vietnam and surrounding areas.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Vietnam
- Diet
- Pan’s Box Turtle is an omnivore, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, and small invertebrates. Their diet can vary significantly based on seasonal availability of food sources.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- leafy greens, insects
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
1-2 kg
Weight
15-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown or black shell with yellow or orange markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males tend to have slightly larger and more colorful markings than females
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Pan’s Box Turtle is currently declining due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urbanization and agriculture, as well as poaching for the pet trade. These factors have significantly impacted their populations in the wild.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, large mammals, and other carnivorous reptiles can pose threats to Pan’s Box Turtles, especially when they are young or vulnerable.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Pan’s Box Turtles can retract their heads and limbs into their shells for protection against predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon