Identification:
Medium-sized, with a carapace length ranging from 170 to 200 mm. The carapace is slightly flattened, with a smooth posterior margin (no serrations). The carapace has three keels (one dorsal and two lateral). The plastron consists of two hinged sections, allowing it to close tightly against the carapace. The dorsal surface is brown with three black-gray stripes running along the three keels of the carapace. The plastron is black-gray, with a reddish-brown border.
Biology and Ecology:
The turtle inhabits the margins of streams and crevices in forests of mountainous and midland regions, up to an altitude of 1000 meters. During the day, it hides under decaying leaf litter near streams or in crevices, emerging at night to forage. Its diet consists of various animals (insects, shrimp, fish, snails, etc.); however, it also consumes fruits and aquatic plants found along stream banks. In captivity, it may also eat meat, animal organs, and ripe bananas. Breeding primarily occurs from May to July, with each clutch consisting of two eggs.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Cao Bằng, Bắc Kạn, Lạng Sơn, Tam Đảo Mountain, Yên Tử Mountain, Thanh Hoá, Nghệ An, Hà Tĩnh, Quảng Trị, Quảng Nam, Kon Tum, Gia Lai.
- Global: Southern China, northern Myanmar, Laos.
Value:
Possesses scientific and aesthetic value, aiding students in understanding the ecological behaviors of the species in its natural environment. They are also kept in recreational areas (zoos).
Status:
The Three-striped Box Turtle is being extensively hunted and exploited for international trade, resulting in a severe decline in its wild population, estimated to be over 80%.
Conservation Status:
Critically Endangered (CR) A1d + 2d.
Conservation Measures:
Strictly prohibit hunting and trading. Implement captive breeding programs.