Flattened Musk Turtle
Sternotherus depressus
A small, unique species of turtle that only grows to 12 cm in length. It has a moderately flattened shell that is oval shaped when viewed from above. Its plastron is very…
How to identify
A small, unique species of turtle that only grows to 12 cm in length. It has a moderately flattened shell that is oval shaped when viewed from above. Its plastron is very small and narrow, and the perimeter carapace scutes are wide and extend well past the turtle's body. Its carapace is light brown with dark brown blotches and striations, and its plastron is yellowish brown with pale seams. It has a relatively large head with a strongly pointed snout. Its skin is uniformly patterned with yellow and black vermiculation, and its eyes are bright yellow with round pupils.
Range
Limited range in north central Alabama.
Habitat
A strictly aquatic turtle that prefers clean, medium-sized streams and rivers with lots of rock crevices for hiding.
Variations
Pattern on carapace is variable.
Similar species
It could possibly be confused with the stripeneck musk turtle (*Sternotherus minor ssp. peltifer*), a subspecies of the loggerhead musk turtle (*Sternotherus minor*).
Name and etymology
Depressus: Latin for depressed or low.
At a glance
Range
Limited range in north central Alabama.
Habitat
A strictly aquatic turtle that prefers clean, medium-sized streams and rivers with lots of rock crevices for hiding.
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap