Identification Characteristics:
Medium size, with a carapace length of approximately 170 mm. The carapace is slightly flattened, and lacks serrations on the posterior margin. Three longitudinal keels are present on the carapace, with the median keel being the most prominent. The head is dark brown or dark gray, with three yellow stripes on each side: one stripe extends from behind the nose, passing above the eye socket to the neck; a larger stripe extends from the nose, through the eye socket and tympanum to the neck; and one stripe runs along the lower jaw to the neck. The carapace is dark gray. The plastron is yellow or orange, featuring large black spots on each scute.
Biology and Ecology:
This turtle inhabits streams and marshes within pristine environments, and well-protected forests. It usually forages in slow-moving or still waters. It is an omnivore, feeding on insects, worms, fish, and aquatic plants.
Distribution:
- Within Vietnam: Da Nang, Quang Nam.
- Global: A narrow endemic species, found only in Vietnam.
Value:
This turtle has scientific and aesthetic value, providing students with opportunities to learn about its ecological behavior in nature.
Conservation Status:
The population is declining in the wild due to hunting. The species has been found in only two locations with a total area of less than 100 km², with all individuals within a single population.
Red List Category:
CR A1d B2a,e C2b
Conservation Measures:
Complete prohibition of hunting and trading. Captive breeding should be organized in the areas of its distribution, and some individuals should be introduced into zoos for captive breeding to conserve the gene pool.