Phylum Chordata Rank Species | Subphylum Vertebrata Subfamily Kinosterninae Scientific name Sternotherus carinatus Higher classification Sternotherus Order Turtle | |
Similar Turtle, Sternotherus, Sternotherus odoratus, Reptile, Loggerhead musk turtle | ||
The razor-backed musk turtle (Sternotherus carinatus) is a species of turtles native to the southern United States. No subspecies are recognized.
Contents
Geographic range
It is found in the states of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, Florida and Louisiana.
Description
The razor-backed musk turtle grows to about 15 cm (5.9 in) in carapace length. It has a brown-colored shell, with black markings at the edges of each scute. The shell has a distinct, sharp keel down the center of its length, giving the species its common name. The body is typically grey-brown in color, with black spotting, as is the head, which tends to have a bulbous shape to it. It has a long neck, short legs, and a sharp beak. Males can usually be distinguished from females by their longer tails.
The plastron is small, with only one hinge which is located anteriorly. There is no gular scute. Barbels are present on the chin only.
Behavior
They are almost entirely aquatic, spending most of their time in shallow, heavily vegetated, slow-moving creeks, ponds, streams, and swamps. The only time they typically venture onto land is when females lay their eggs. However, both sexes bask often.
Diet
Their diets consist primarily of aquatic invertebrates, including freshwater clams, crayfish, snails, and various insects. They also feed on fish and carrion.
In captivity
The razor-backed musk turtle is frequently kept in captivity, and is regularly captive bred. Its relatively small size, and ease of care makes it a more attractive choice as a pet turtle for many keepers, than the more commonly available red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans).