Coahuilan box turtle
Species of turtle
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Coahuilan box turtle (Terrapene coahuila), also known commonly as the aquatic box turtle, is an endangered species of turtle in the family Emydidae. Unlike the other members of the genus Terrapene, this turtle spends roughly 90% of its time in water.[4]
| Coahuilan box turtle | |
|---|---|
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| Coahuilan box turtle (Terrapene coahuila) at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Testudines |
| Suborder: | Cryptodira |
| Family: | Emydidae |
| Genus: | Terrapene |
| Species: | T. coahuila |
| Binomial name | |
| Terrapene coahuila | |
| Synonyms[3] | |
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It is a close relative to the common box turtle (Terrapene carolina). Researchers have therefore suggested that it developed from a nonaquatic species in order to survive in the desert springs of Cuatro Ciénegas.[4]
Geographic range
Terrapene coahuila is endemic to the vicinity of Cuatro Ciénegas in Coahuila, Mexico.[5] Within an area of less than 800 km2 (300 sq mi), there are several distinct pockets of this species. During the rainy season, Coahuilan box turtles may leave their home range and travel throughout the desert.[4]
Description
The body of Terrapene coahuila is adapted for spending long periods of time in the water, and the shell is often covered in algae. Just like any other box turtle, it has a hinged plastron that can be completely closed. The skin is dark, usually dark brown and dark gray, but some areas can appear completely black.[4]
Diet
Reproduction
Predation
Raccoons and eastern copperheads eat the eggs of Coahuilan box turtles. Raccoons also prey on hatchlings and adults. Virginia opossums and striped skunks are also predators of this turtle. Coyotes are potential predators of this turtle.[6]
