Yellow-headed temple turtle


The yellow-headed temple turtle is a large species of turtle in the family Geoemydidae. The species is native to Southeast Asia.

Etymology

The common name, "yellow-headed temple turtle", is derived from the fact that it is often found near Buddhist temples within its range.
The specific name, annandalii, is in honor of Scottish herpetologist Nelson Annandale.

Description

H. annandalii may grow to over 20 in in straight carapace length.

Behavior

H. annandalii is aquatic, and is generally herbivorous.

Conservation status

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora suspended trade of yellow-headed temple turtles in July 2012.

Geographic range

H. annandalii is found in Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and possibly Myanmar.

Captivity

H. annandalii may live in captivity for up to 35 years.
Two turtles were hatched in November 2019 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Heosemys annadali has been breed in captivity.

Parasites

The leech Placobdelloides siamensis is an ectoparasite of this turtle.