Malaysian giant turtle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Malaysian giant turtle |
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| Genus: |
Orlitia
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| Species: |
borneensis
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The Malaysian giant turtle or Bornean river turtle (Orlitia borneensis) is a very large turtle. It belongs to the family Bataguridae. This amazing turtle is the only species in its genus Orlitia.
You can find these turtles in parts of Indonesia and Malaysia. They are truly giants of the freshwater world!
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About the Malaysian Giant Turtle
The Malaysian giant turtle is the biggest freshwater turtle in Southeast Asia. It can grow up to 80 cm (31 inches) long. That's almost as tall as a 10-year-old kid!
These turtles can also weigh a lot, up to 50 kg (110 pounds). That's like carrying a small person!
Where They Live
These huge turtles love living in water. They make their homes in large lakes and swamps. You can also find them in slow-moving rivers.
They need plenty of space because of their size. Their habitat provides them with food and shelter.
What They Look Like
The Malaysian giant turtle has a dark brown or black shell. This shell is called a carapace. It is smooth and shaped like an oval.
Their underside, called the plastron, is a pale yellowish-brown or off-white color. Their head is strong with powerful jaws. They have a snout that sticks out a little bit.
Young vs. Adult Turtles
Adult turtles have a head that is all dark brown or black. Young turtles look a bit different. Their heads are dark with pale spots. They also have a light line that goes from their mouth to the back of their head.
What They Eat
These turtles mainly eat fish. This means they are piscivorous. They are good hunters in the water.
Sometimes, they also eat fallen fruit. They might also eat other small animals they find.
Protecting the Malaysian Giant Turtle
Sadly, the Malaysian giant turtle is in big trouble. It is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. This means it is very close to disappearing forever.
Why They Are Endangered
One big problem is that these turtles are hunted. People in some areas use them for food or traditional purposes. Even though they are rare, they are not always protected.
Their homes are also being destroyed. Forests are cleared to make palm oil plantations. This takes away the lakes, swamps, and rivers where these turtles live.
It's important to protect these amazing creatures. We need to make sure they have safe places to live and are not overhunted.
