PASCAGOULA MAP TURTLE
Graptemys gibbonsi
DESCRIPTION
The Pascagoula Map Turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi) is a medium-sized freshwater turtle characterized by its distinctive map-like patterns on the shell, which can vary in color from olive to dark brown. Males are generally smaller than females, with males reaching about 4-6 inches in carapace length, while females can grow up to 10 inches. This species is primarily found in the Pascagoula River system in Mississippi and Alabama, where it prefers slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation.
FUN FACTS
- The Pascagoula Map Turtle is named after the Pascagoula River, which is its primary habitat
- This species is unique among map turtles for its specific geographic range and distinct shell patterns, making it a subject of interest for conservationists and researchers
- | Pascagoula Map Turtles are known for their basking behavior, often seen sunning themselves on logs or rocks during the day
- This behavior is essential for thermoregulation, allowing them to maintain their body temperature and metabolic functions
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length10-12 inches
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These turtles inhabit freshwater rivers, streams, and ponds, often favoring areas with submerged logs and abundant aquatic vegetation. They require clean water and a suitable basking site to thrive.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- The Pascagoula Map Turtle is native to the Pascagoula River system in southeastern Mississippi and southwestern Alabama.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States
- Diet
- Pascagoula Map Turtles are primarily carnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes aquatic invertebrates, such as insects and crustaceans. They may also consume some plant material occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
1-2 kg
Weight
10-12 inches
Length
- Coloration
- The shell is typically olive to dark brown with yellow or white markings that resemble a map.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are smaller than females and have longer claws.
- Lifespan
- 10-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-12
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to habitat loss and other environmental pressures.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development, pollution, and competition with invasive species. Additionally, road mortality poses a significant risk during nesting season.
- Predators
- Raccoons, birds of prey, and large fish are known predators of the Pascagoula Map Turtle.
- Defense Mechanisms
- When threatened, they quickly retreat into the water or hide among vegetation.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon