Diamondback Terrapin
Malaclemys terrapin
Adult diamondback terrapins inhabit brackish coastal marshes, estuaries, tidal creeks, and salt ponds along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America. They feed heavily on snails, mussels, clams, crabs, and other hard-shelled invertebrates, crushing prey with strong jaws. Adults bask on mud banks and marsh edges, then slip back into the water when disturbed. One notable adaptation is their ability to live in salty environments, aided by behavior and salt-handling glands around the eyes.
- Type
- Water / Shell
- Conservation status
- VU
Growth chain
- Diamondback Terrapin Hatchling
- ?
- Diamondback Terrapin