Argentine snake-necked turtle is a species of turtle found in northern Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. The turtle derived its name from its long neck. It is quite favored in the exotic pet trade. Females are larger than males.
Kingdom |
Animalia |
Phylum |
Chordata |
Class |
Reptilia |
Order |
Testudines |
Family |
Chelidae |
Genus |
Hydromedusa |
Scientific Name |
Hydromedusa tectifera |
Other Names |
South American snake-necked turtle |
Size |
Around 28 cm (11 in) |
Color |
Dark brown outer shell with fully yellow or yellow with brown blotches underside of the shell; olive to gray head with tan or yellow jaws; underside of the head and chin is yellow with dark lines or spots; olive gray tail |
Distribution |
Northern Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, southern Brazil |
Habitat |
Rivers, streams, marshes, and ponds with aquatic vegetation; also occupy brackish water in coastal areas |
Diet |
Snails, fish, aquatic insects, amphibians |
Hibernation Fact |
May hibernate in colder areas within its range |
Breeding Season |
Spring |
Mode of Reproduction |
Oviparous (egg-laying) |
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Argentine Snake Necked Turtle
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Argentine Snake-necked Turtle
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Hydromedusa Tectifera
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South American Snake-necked Turtle