| Big-headed turtle | |
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Testudines |
| Suborder: | Cryptodira |
| Family: | Platysternidae Gray, 1869[2] |
| Genus: | Platysternon Gray, 1831[2] |
| Species: | P. megacephalum |
| Binomial name | |
| Platysternon megacephalum Gray, 1831[2] |
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The big-headed turtle (Platysternon megacephalum) is a species of turtle in the family Platysternidae.[2]
Contents |
Previously considered a distinct family placed on occasion in "Kinosternoidea", it was later moved to the Emydidae. With the Geoemydidae being split off from these, it seems wisest to reinstate, at least for the time being, the Platysternidae. This, as well as the subfamily and the genus Platysternon, are monotypic.
It is found in China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.[2]
In addition to a very large head, the big headed turtle is known to readily climb trees near rivers and fast streams. Kirkpatrick (1995) also mentions that Platysternon uses its beak to climb. He also mentions when swimming, this species often arcs its tail in the manner of a scorpion. The big headed turtle cannot pull its head in its shell. That being the case, Platysternon will not hesitate to use its powerful jaws to defend itself. It is a fish and snail eater.
The big-headed turtle is readily consumed in Asia and is frequently a market item. Hunters capture them on lines with baited straight pins. As such, this species is rapidly disappearing in the wild.[3]
In addition two other subspecies Platysternon megacephalum tristernalis(1984) and Platysternon megacephalum vogeli'(1969) have been given but may be invalid.[4]
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