Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Geoemyda
|
| Species: |
japonica
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
The Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle or Ryukyu leaf turtle (scientific name: Geoemyda japonica) is a special type of turtle. It lives only on the Ryukyu Islands in Japan. This means it is endemic to these islands, found nowhere else in the world.
In 1975, the Japanese government declared this turtle a National Natural Monument. This helps protect it because it is a very important part of Japan's natural heritage. These turtles are quite small, usually growing to about 15 to 16 centimeters (about 6 inches) long.
When kept by people, they enjoy eating worms, snails, insects, and fruit. Because they are rare and look very interesting, many turtle collectors around the world want to have them.
This turtle was first thought to be a kind of Geoemyda spengleri, another turtle species. It was called Geoemyda spengleri japonica. But in 1992, scientists studied it more closely. They decided it was different enough to be its own unique species. That's when it got its current scientific name, Geoemyda japonica.
Sometimes, different types of turtles can have babies together. This is called creating a hybrid. The Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle is known to create hybrids with another turtle called the Cuora flavomarginata. This can happen both when they are kept by humans and sometimes even in the wild.
Contents
Appearance and Features
The Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle is a small reptile. It usually grows to about 15 to 16 centimeters (about 6 inches) long. Its shell is often dark, and its underside, called the plastron, has a mix of black and yellow colors. This makes it look very striking.
Where They Live
These turtles live in specific parts of the Ryukyu Islands. You can find them in the northern areas of Okinawa Island. They also live on smaller islands like Kumejima and Tokashikijima.
During the colder winter months, these turtles do not hibernate deeply. Instead, they often spend their time resting in caves or in areas very close to caves. This helps them stay safe and warm.
What They Eat
The Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle enjoys a varied diet. They eat different kinds of leaves and fruits they find in their habitat. They also hunt and eat insects. Sadly, these turtles can sometimes become food for other animals, like the Ryukyu born snake.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Female Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtles usually lay two eggs at a time. They do this between June and September. When the baby turtles hatch, they are very small. Each baby turtle is only about 3.5 centimeters (about 1.4 inches) long.
Threats to Their Survival
The biggest danger to the Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle is the loss of its natural home. As humans develop land for buildings and other uses, the turtles' habitats shrink. This makes it harder for them to find food, water, and safe places to live.
Protecting These Turtles
The Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle is an endangered species. This means it is at a high risk of disappearing forever. Because of this, it is against the law to export these turtles from Japan. They are protected by law to help their numbers grow and ensure they survive for future generations.
Images for kids
-
A Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle in its natural habitat.
