Escambia map turtle
Species of turtle
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Escambia map turtle (Graptemys ernsti), also known commonly as Ernst's map turtle, is a species of turtle in the family Emydidae. The species is endemic to the United States.
| Escambia map turtle | |
|---|---|
| |
| Graptemys ernsti | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Testudines |
| Suborder: | Cryptodira |
| Family: | Emydidae |
| Genus: | Graptemys |
| Species: | G. ernsti |
| Binomial name | |
| Graptemys ernsti | |
 | |
| Range map | |
| Synonyms[3] | |
Geographic range
Graptemys ernsti is found in southern Alabama and western Florida, in rivers which drain into Escambia Bay.[3]
Habitat
The preferred natural habitat of Graptemys ernsti is flowing fresh water, in medium to large creeks and rivers.[1]
Etymology
The specific name, ernsti, is in honor of American herpetologist Carl Henry Ernst.[4][5]
Description
Diet
The diet of Graptemys ernsti varies according to age and gender. Males and juveniles prey predominately upon insects, but females prey almost entirely upon snails and clams, including the invasive species Corbicula fluminea.[1]
