REDDISH PELOMEDUSA
Pelomedusa subrufa
DESCRIPTION
The Reddish Pelomedusa, or Pelomedusa subrufa, is a medium-sized freshwater turtle characterized by its reddish-brown carapace and a distinctive yellowish plastron. This species is known for its adaptability to various aquatic environments, often found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and marshes. They are primarily aquatic but can often be seen basking on logs or rocks during the day, showcasing their semi-aquatic lifestyle.
FUN FACTS
- The Reddish Pelomedusa is often referred to as the 'African mud turtle' due to its preference for muddy habitats
- They have a unique ability to hold their breath for extended periods, allowing them to stay submerged while foraging for food or evading predators
- | These turtles are also known for their interesting nesting behavior, where females will dig holes in sandy or muddy banks to lay their eggs, often returning to the same spot year after year
- Their adaptability to various environments makes them a fascinating subject for study in herpetology
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight1-3 kg
Average Length20-30 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during mating season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonWet season (varies by region)
- Habitat
- This species thrives in freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, and swamps, often preferring areas with abundant vegetation. They are also known to inhabit temporary water bodies during the rainy season.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- The Reddish Pelomedusa is native to sub-Saharan Africa, with a range extending from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia
- Diet
- The Reddish Pelomedusa is an omnivorous turtle, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, and small aquatic animals. Their diet can vary significantly based on the availability of food sources in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, insects, small fish
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during mating season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
1-3 kg
Weight
20-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- reddish-brown carapace with a yellowish plastron
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Wet season (varies by region)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat destruction poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization, as well as pollution in freshwater habitats. Overharvesting for the pet trade can also impact local populations.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, large fish, and mammals such as otters may prey on juvenile Reddish Pelomedusa turtles.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can retract into their shells for protection and are also known to bury themselves in mud to avoid detection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon