Stupendemys facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stupendemys |
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| Stupendemys geographicus at the AMNH | |
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Podocnemididae
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Stupendemys
Wood, 1976
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Stupendemys was a giant prehistoric freshwater turtle. Its name means "stupendous turtle" because of its incredible size! Scientists have found its fossils in northern South America. These fossils are from rocks that are about 6 to 5 million years old. This time period is known as the late Miocene and early Pliocene epochs.
The shell of Stupendemys, called a carapace, was huge. It measured over 1.8 meters (about 6 feet) long and was also very wide. Some estimates suggest its shell could be as long as 3.3 meters (11 feet)! This makes Stupendemys the largest turtle that ever lived, even bigger than another giant ancient turtle called Archelon.
Scientists have found two main types, or species, of Stupendemys. One is Stupendemys geographicus, found in Venezuela. The other is Stupendemys souzai, which was a bit smaller and thinner, found in Brazil.
What Did Stupendemys Eat?
Stupendemys was a herbivore, meaning it ate plants. It likely spent a lot of time underwater, munching on aquatic plants. Its heavy shell helped it stay submerged for long periods.
Because of its massive size, Stupendemys was probably not a fast swimmer. It would have struggled against strong river currents. So, it likely preferred wide, slow-moving rivers and large swampy areas.
Where Did Stupendemys Live?
The world where Stupendemys lived was very different from today. Its habitat was mostly low-lying rainforests. These areas would flood during certain seasons, creating large floodplains and swamplands. The rivers were wide and calm, perfect for such a huge, slow-moving turtle.
At that time, there were many other large plant-eating animals, but not many land-based meat-eaters. This environment allowed giant creatures like Stupendemys to thrive.
Images for kids
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Replica of Stupendemys geographicus carapace in Osaka
See also
In Spanish: Stupendemys para niños
