Swinhoe’s Softshell Turtle

WHY IN THE NEWS?

In recent years, a lot of efforts have been put by conservationists to save the world’s most endangered turtle, Swinhoe’s softshell turtle from the brink of extinction.

• The animal is also known as the Hoan Kiem turtle or Yangtze giant softshell turtle.
• In Vietnam, these animals have great cultural significance as people in Hanoi revere this creature as a living god.

About:

Scientific Name: Rafetus swinhoei

• These turtles are grey with light grey or yellow spots.

Significance:

• Some researchers have highlighted their importance to the seafloor biosystem, where they contribute by enriching soil nutrients and facilitating seed dispersion.

Habitat:

• The natural habitat for these turtles are wetlands and large lakes.
• Native to China and Vietnam.

Protection Status:

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
• CITES: Appendix II

Threats:

• They have been driven to the brink by hunting for their meat and eggs, as well as by the destruction of their habitat.