What is malayan softshell turtle?

The Malayan softshell turtle (Amyda cartilaginea), also known as the Malayan river turtle or the Asiatic softshell turtle, is a freshwater species of turtle found in Southeast Asia. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and overexploitation.

The Malayan softshell turtle is characterized by its soft, leathery shell that is almost completely flat. The shell is olive to dark brown in color with a light colored venter. It has a long, pointed snout and webbed feet with sharp claws. It can grow up to 70 centimeters in length and weigh up to 20 kilograms.

This turtle is typically found in rivers, streams, and ponds with sandy or muddy bottoms and plenty of vegetation. They are primarily carnivorous and feed on fish, crustaceans, and insects.

Breeding takes place between November and March, with females laying 10-30 eggs in shallow nests on sandbars or riverbanks. The young hatch after about 2 months and are immediately self-sufficient.

The Malayan softshell turtle plays an important ecological role in their habitat as they help maintain water quality and control the population of prey species. However, the species is threatened by habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, urbanization, and dam construction. It is also hunted for both food and the traditional medicine trade. Conservation efforts such as habitat protection, captive breeding, and public awareness campaigns are needed to ensure the survival of this vulnerable species.