Arakan forest turtle

The Arakan forest turtle, a critically endangered species, is indigenous to the Arakan Hills in western Myanmar and the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh. This unique turtle can thrive on both land and in water, though adult turtles predominantly prefer terrestrial habitats. Scientifically known as Geoëmyda depressa, this species was first described by Anderson in 1875.

These turtles are relatively small, with a shell length of about 22 cm and a weight of around 1.3 kg. They feature 18 distinctive rings on their plastron (the underside of their shell). In 2009, researchers discovered these turtles in the Rakhine Yoma Elephant Range in Myanmar, which has since been identified as a potential conservation area. The remote and uninhabited nature of this region provides a degree of protection from large-scale hunting, although local inhabitants occasionally capture them.

Arakan forest turtles are nocturnal and are most active during the early wet season. They are omnivorous, consuming both plant and animal matter. Their diet includes insects, worms, fish, and fallen fruits. Interestingly, these turtles are typically quite shy, but they can exhibit aggression when feeding.

One of the most significant threats to the Arakan forest turtle is illegal trade. In China, these turtles are captured from western Myanmar and sold as pets. In 2003, researchers even found specimens of these turtles in the Czech Republic, imported for private collections. To save this critically endangered species from extinction, robust conservation efforts are essential.