Identification:
Medium-sized body, with a carapace length of approximately 275 mm. The head features numerous horny scutes. The carapace is domed, sometimes slightly constricted in the middle. The plastron is flat anteriorly and deeply concave posteriorly. Males have a long, rigid tail and a deeply concave plastron; females have a short tail and a flat plastron. Legs are cylindrical; toes lack webbing. The carapace is yellow, with black spots in the center of each scute.
Biology and Ecology:
These turtles inhabit forests with low bushes, generally at relatively low altitudes. In southern Vietnam, during the dry season, they exhibit a period of dormancy, remaining inactive in the bushes and not feeding. They become active and forage during the rainy season. Their primary diet consists of plants: fruits, vegetables, and may also include fungi, earthworms, and snails. They lay eggs in October or November each year, producing 4-5 eggs, each approximately 50/40mm in size. They bury their eggs in the soil.
Distribution:
- Within Vietnam: Lao Cai, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Lang Son, Son La, Bac Giang, Ha Tay, Hoa Binh, Quang Ninh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Thua Thien-Hue, Quang Nam, Kontum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, Binh Thuan, Ba Ria – Vung Tau.
- Worldwide: China, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Value:
This species holds scientific and aesthetic value and is useful for students to learn about the ecological behavior of this species in the natural world. They are also kept in recreational facilities, such as zoos.
Status:
The wild population has declined by >50% due to overhunting.
IUCN Red List Category:
EN A1d + 2d (Endangered)
Conservation Measures:
Prohibition of hunting and trade. Captive breeding programs are needed.