Identification
Size and Morphology: Large; carapace length up to 400 mm. Carapace is high, featuring a single vertebral keel. The posterior edge of the carapace is distinctly serrated. A notable feature is the generally protruding, triangular-shaped first marginal scute. The plastron’s anterior edge is nearly straight, while the posterior edge is notched. The tail is very short. The carapace is dark brown. The plastron is pale yellow or light brown, with darker brown or black streaks radiating from dark spots on each scute.
Biology and Ecology
Habitat and Diet: This turtle inhabits ponds, rivers, streams, and slow-flowing wetlands across various altitudes. Its diet consists of fruits, aquatic plants, and small animals. In captivity, they readily consume ripe bananas.
Reproduction: The turtle lays eggs from December to January.
Distribution
Within Vietnam: Gia Lai, Đắk Lắk, Đồng Nai, Bình Phước, and the Southern provinces.
International: Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and Malaysia.
Value
Significance: The species is valued for scientific research and aesthetic purposes. It is also kept in recreational facilities such as parks and zoos to educate students about its ecological behavior.
Conservation Status
Threats: Habitat fragmentation. Wild populations have declined by at least 20% due to hunting.
Classification
IUCN Red List Status: VU A1d +2d (Vulnerable)
Conservation Measures
Actions: Hunting is prohibited, and the habitats of this species must be protected. Captive breeding programs should be implemented, and individuals should be reintroduced into their natural environments.