Acanthochelys spixii
Chelidae·herbivore
The black spine-neck swamp turtle (Acanthochelys spixii) is a species of turtle belonging to the family Chelidae, endemic to South America. It is distinguished by its spiny neck and is found primarily in the Southern Cone region of the continent.
Key Facts
- ›Also known as the spiny-neck turtle or Spix's sideneck turtle.
- ›Belongs to the family Chelidae.
- ›Native to South America, specifically the Southern Cone region.
- ›Found in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and possibly Paraguay.
- ›Named in honor of German biologist Johann Baptist von Spix.
Spiny Neck
About Acanthochelys spixii
The black spine-neck swamp turtle, scientifically known as Acanthochelys spixii, is a species of turtle that belongs to the family Chelidae. This species is endemic to the continent of South America, with its primary range located within the Southern Cone region.
Geographic Distribution
Acanthochelys spixii is found across several South American countries. It is known to inhabit Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. There is also a possibility of its presence in Paraguay, though this is not definitively confirmed.
Etymology
The specific epithet, spixii, was chosen to honor the German biologist Johann Baptist von Spix, recognizing his contributions to the field of biology.
Common Names
In addition to its scientific name, Acanthochelys spixii is commonly referred to by several other names, including the spiny-neck turtle and Spix's sideneck turtle, reflecting its distinctive physical characteristics.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the black spine-neck swamp turtle?
The scientific name of the black spine-neck swamp turtle is Acanthochelys spixii.
What family does Acanthochelys spixii belong to?
Acanthochelys spixii belongs to the family Chelidae, which is a family of side-necked turtles.
Where is Acanthochelys spixii found geographically?
Acanthochelys spixii is found in South America, specifically in the Southern Cone region. Countries where it is known to occur include Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, with possible presence in Paraguay.
Why is the species named spixii?
The specific name, spixii, was given in honor of the German biologist Johann Baptist von Spix.
Related Turtles
Acanthochelys macrocephala
The big-headed pantanal swamp turtle (Acanthochelys macrocephala) is a species of turtle found in Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. Distinctive for its extremely broad head, it is the largest species within the Acanthochelys genus, reaching up to 23.5 cm in carapace length. This species inhabits marshes, swamps, and slow-flowing streams.
Acanthochelys radiolata
The Brazilian radiolated swamp turtle (Acanthochelys radiolata) is a species of turtle native to Brazil. It belongs to the Chelidae family of turtles.
African helmeted turtle
The African helmeted turtle, also known as the marsh terrapin or crocodile turtle, is a species of omnivorous side-necked terrapin found in freshwater and stagnant water bodies across much of Sub-Saharan Africa and in southern Yemen. It is distinguished by its lack of a hinged plastron, allowing it to right itself with its neck when overturned, and its unique behavior of collectively drowning larger prey.