Chinese Softshell Turtle
Pelodiscus sinensis
Soft, leathery round to oval carapace ranging from 4.5-13 inches in length, with females being larger than males. They lack hard scutes on the shell. Adults are uniform o…
How to identify
Soft, leathery round to oval carapace ranging from 4.5-13 inches in length, with females being larger than males. They lack hard scutes on the shell. Adults are uniform olive grey or greenish brown in skin and shell color. Juveniles have black spots with yellow borders that disappear with age. They have a long neck with a large head and pointed face. Their nostrils are elongated into a double-tube shape used as a snorkel. They have pale spots around their mouth. Plastron and ventral skin is lighter and sometimes reddish.
Range
Native to China, but introduced populations are established in Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii. Sightings have been reported in New York and Maryland, but it is not established in those states. Introduced populations also exist in other Asian countries, as well as Spain and Brazil. These introductions are a result of escapees from captive farming operations, as its widely used to make turtle soup.
Habitat
Freshwater or brackish ponds, lakes, marshes, drainage ditches, or slow moving streams. They like to rest underwater, partially buried in mud.
Variations
Shell may display black splotches. Some adults retain tiny yellow spots on their chin and neck.
Similar species
Very similar to the northern Chinese softshell turtle (*Pelodiscus maackii*). Also resembles the Southeast Asian softshell turtle (*Amyda cartilaginea*) and Florida softshell turtle (*Apalone ferox*).
Name and etymology
Sinensis: Meaning people of China.
At a glance
Range
Native to China, but introduced populations are established in Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii. Sightings have been reported in New Yo…
Habitat
Freshwater or brackish ponds, lakes, marshes, drainage ditches, or slow moving streams. They like to rest underwater, partial…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap