Identification:
The Geoemyda (Sêpôn) turtle is a medium-sized species. Its carapace can reach up to 22 cm in length and may have a low, indistinct dorsal ridge. The carapace is gray-brown or dark brown. There are pink stripes on the underside of the neck, extending towards the lower eye sockets to the nose and chin. Males have longer and thicker tails than females.
Biology and Ecology:
Their diet primarily consists of earthworms, insects, fish, shrimp, fruits, and vegetables. There is currently no data available on their reproduction. They inhabit rivers and streams in mountainous areas, and prefer to come onto land.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Lai Châu (Chà Cang), Hòa Bình (Mai Châu), Hà Tĩnh (Vũ Quang), Quảng Trị, Gia Lai (Sơklang), Đồng Nai (Cát Tiên National Park)
- World: Laos, Cambodia
Conservation Status:
This turtle species is of scientific and aesthetic value, offering students insights into its ecological behaviors in nature. Due to the low population numbers, conservation efforts are required.
Hunting and trading are strictly prohibited. Captive breeding programs should be implemented in protected areas to facilitate reproduction and release into the natural environment, thus preserving the genetic resources.