AnimaliaIUCN NTIn Progress Recent Sighting
Rhinoclemmys funerea
Black Wood Turtle
Cope, 1875
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A medium-sized turtle with a flattened and remarkably dark carapace, ranging from deep brown to almost jet black. Its head features radiant patterns of yellow or light-colored lines that contrast dramatically with the dark tone of its skin, giving it a distinguished appearance.
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Anonymous Curator
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Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Taxonomy
PhylumChordata
ClassReptilia
OrderTestudines
FamilyGeoemydidae
GenusRhinoclemmys
Taxonomic AuthorityCope, 1875
Ecology & Status
Origin
Native
Population Trend
Decreasing
Breeding Season
Year Round
Trophic Role
Omnivore
Recent Sightings
Yes
Habitat Summary Multi-lang
Inhabits wooded areas with high humidity, preferring slow streams, swamps, temporary ponds, and floodplains of humid tropical rainforests. It is both a terrestrial and aquatic species, spending much of its time among leaf litter and shallow water.Behaviour Multi-lang
Mostly diurnal species with solitary habits. Although it spends much time in the water, it moves with agility on the forest floor. It is a discreet and cautious species, which usually retreats at the slightest sign of danger.Social Activity Multi-lang
Solitary. Social interactions are minimal and, outside the reproductive season, they actively avoid other individuals. Males can be territorial if they encounter other males.Feeding Guild Multi-lang
Active forager. Explores both the water surface and the forest floor, using its sense of smell to locate decomposing organic matter or ripe fruits.Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang
Opportunistic omnivore. Its diet is very varied, including fallen fruits, flowers, tender leaves, insects, worms, crustaceans, and occasionally carrion. This dietary plasticity is key to its survival in the forest.Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang
Oviparous species. The female lays its eggs in nests excavated in moist soil or under layers of leaf litter. Embryonic development depends on ambient climatic conditions.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
15.0 - 20.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
400 g - 1.00 kg
Offspring per cycle2 - 4
Sexual DimorphismYes
Lifespan
Sexual Maturity
5 - 8 Years
Gestation / Incubation
3 - 5
Lifespan Estimated
Males15 - 25 Years
Females15 - 25 Years
Sexual Dimorphism
Males Multi-lang
The male possesses a considerably longer and thicker tail at its base, and a cloacal opening located beyond the edge of the carapace. In addition, its plastron usually presents a more marked concavity.
Females Multi-lang
The female has a shorter and thinner tail, with the cloacal opening positioned near the edge of the carapace. Its plastron is flat, facilitating movement and stability on the terrain.
Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang
Behavioral Thermoregulation: Being a reptile of tropical climates, it frequently alternates between immersions in cool streams and basking sessions on fallen logs to maintain an optimal body temperature for digestion.
Main Threats Multi-lang
Habitat Loss: Deforestation for agriculture reduces the water corridors and humid forest necessary for its life cycles between land and water.
Interesting Facts Multi-lang
Camouflage in Dark Water: Its dark coloration, which often appears almost black, is an evolutionary adaptation to blend in with the muddy bottom and tannin-stained waters of the jungles, protecting it from aerial and terrestrial predators.