It’s #TaxaTuesday again! We are at the 7th Genus found in Malaysia, Orlitia, also a monotypic genus with only 1 species (O. borneensis).
O. borneensis, also known as Malaysian Giant Terrapin, is an endangered species listed under the IUCN Red List. Their population is declining due to the illegal international trade for their meat.
The Malaysian Giant Terrapin is the largest freshwater turtle in Southeast Asia. The carapace is flat with smooth edges in adults; however, the carapace is doomed and slightly serrated at the posterior margin in juveniles.
Don’t miss next week’s #TaxaTuesday for more freshwater turtles in Malaysia!