Northern spiny softshell turtle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Apalone spinifera spinifera |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Testudines |
| Suborder: | Cryptodira |
| Family: | Trionychidae |
| Genus: | Apalone |
| Species: | |
| Subspecies: |
A. s. spinifera
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| Trinomial name | |
| Apalone spinifera spinifera (Lesueur, 1827)
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| Synonyms | |
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The northern spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera spinifera) is a type of turtle with a soft shell. It belongs to the family called Trionychidae. These turtles are native to the United States. You can find them from Montana in the west all the way to Vermont and Quebec in the east. Some populations have also been found in places like Massachusetts, New Jersey, Arizona, and Virginia.
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About the Name
The scientific name Apalone spinifera spinifera helps scientists identify this specific turtle. The word "spinifera" refers to the small spines found on the front edge of its shell.
For a while, scientists thought there were two different types of northern spiny softshell turtles. They used to call the ones west of the Mississippi River Apalone spinifera hartwegi. The name hartwegi was given to honor Dr. Norman Edouard Hartweg. He was a professor who studied turtles at the University of Michigan.
Even though there are some small differences in how these turtles look in different areas, recent studies show they are mostly the same genetically. Because of this, most scientists now agree that all these turtles should just be called the northern spiny softshell turtle.
What They Look Like
Northern spiny softshell turtles have a unique look. Unlike most turtles, their shells are not hard and bony. Instead, they are flat and leathery, which helps them move quickly in water. Their shells are usually olive, tan, or brown, and they often have dark spots or blotches.
They also have a long, pointed snout, which looks a bit like a snorkel. This helps them breathe air while staying mostly hidden underwater. The "spiny" part of their name comes from the small, cone-shaped bumps or spines along the front edge of their shell.
Where They Live
These turtles love living in freshwater environments. You can find them in rivers, lakes, ponds, and even large streams. They prefer places with soft, sandy or muddy bottoms where they can easily bury themselves. They also like areas with lots of aquatic plants and places to bask in the sun.
They are very good swimmers and spend most of their time in the water. They often hide by burying themselves in the sand or mud at the bottom, with only their snouts sticking out to breathe.
What They Eat
Northern spiny softshell turtles are carnivores, which means they eat meat. They are active hunters in the water. Their diet mainly includes insects, crayfish, and small fish. They also eat snails, worms, and sometimes even tadpoles. They use their quick movements and long necks to catch their prey.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Female northern spiny softshell turtles lay their eggs on land, usually in sandy or soft soil near the water. They dig a nest and lay a clutch of round, white eggs. The number of eggs can vary, but it's usually between 9 and 30.
The eggs hatch after about two to three months. The baby turtles are very small and must quickly find their way to the water to survive. The temperature of the nest can sometimes affect whether the baby turtles are male or female.
Conservation
While the northern spiny softshell turtle is generally widespread, some local populations might face threats. These threats can include habitat loss, pollution, and being hit by cars when crossing roads. It's important to protect their habitats to ensure these unique turtles continue to thrive.
