Identification
Size: Medium, with a carapace length of approximately 180-206 mm.
Characteristics: The head possesses numerous horn plates. The carapace is not highly domed, and the scutes in the middle are flat. The anterior and posterior edges of the carapace have sharp, curved, saw-like spines. The plastron has a deep V-shaped indentation at both the front and rear. The legs are cylindrical, and the toes lack webbing. The carapace is characterized by light brown scutes with black borders. The plastron is yellow with dark brown radiating streaks.
Biology and Ecology
These turtles inhabit moist ravines and valleys, found up to an altitude of 1,500m, such as in Sapa. They are active in the evenings and seek shelter in burrows during the day. Their diet consists of fallen fruits, grass shoots, and various fungi. They lay eggs in May each year.
Distribution
Within Vietnam: Lai Châu, Lào Cai, Sơn La, Thanh Hóa, Nghệ An, Hà Tĩnh, Đà Nẵng, Quảng Nam, Kontum, Đắk Lắk, Lâm Đồng, Bình Thuận, Khánh Hòa.
Worldwide: China, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia.
Value
This species has scientific and aesthetic value, providing opportunities for students to study the ecological behavior of this species in the wild. They are also kept in recreational areas like zoos.
Conservation Status
The wild population has declined by at least 20% due to hunting.
Assessment
VU A1c,d + 2d (Vulnerable)
Conservation Measures
Hunting, consumption, and trade of this species are prohibited. Captive breeding programs should be organized in protected areas to propagate the species for release into the wild and to preserve the gene pool.