Chinese Softshell Turtle
Pelodiscus sinensis
Adult Chinese softshell turtles inhabit lakes, ponds, canals, marshes, and slow-moving rivers across much of East Asia and introduced regions. They are mostly aquatic predators and scavengers, eating fish, crustaceans, mollusks, insects, amphibians, and carrion. Adults often rest buried in sediment with only the eyes and tubular snout exposed, striking quickly when prey comes close. Unlike hard-shelled turtles, the shell is leathery and flattened, aiding swimming and concealment while still offering protection.
- Type
- Water / Shell
- Conservation status
- VU
Growth chain
- ?
- ?
- Chinese Softshell Turtle