Pig-nosed Turtle (Fly River Turtle)

Overview

The sole living member of the family Carettochelyidae and the only freshwater turtle with flippers, closely resembling a marine turtle yet confined to fresh and brackish water. It has a soft, leathery shell and a distinctive pig-like snout with tubular nostrils. It feeds on fruits that fall into rivers as well as animals, and is threatened by hunting, habitat loss, and collection.

Classification

The Pig-nosed Turtle (Fly River Turtle) belongs to the suborder Cryptodira (hidden-neck turtles) and the family Carettochelyidae. It is a monotypic family represented by the pig-nosed turtle, the only freshwater turtle with true flippers. Its scientific name is Carettochelys insculpta.

Appearance & Distinguishing Features

It has a flat, leathery, grey shell, a distinctive fleshy snout like a pig's, and flipper-like forelimbs similar to a sea turtle, growing to about 70 cm.

Habitat & Distribution

It inhabits rivers, lakes, and brackish waters of New Guinea and northern Australia, staying in deeper channels.

Diet & Feeding

It is largely omnivorous, eating fruits, leaves, molluscs, and crustaceans, foraging mainly at night.

Behavior & Conservation

It is endangered and listed under CITES Appendix I, threatened by collection for the pet trade and by fishing.

Popularity & Recognition

Its unusual pig-like snout and flippers make it one of the most distinctive freshwater turtles kept by specialists.