Latest Posts by crystallatticed - Page 2

NGC 6727, Stardust

Do you ever feel like a wattle-necked softshell turtle (Palea steindachneri)? You are not alone. Found in parts of Southeastern China and Vietnam, this rare reptile’s carapace, or shell, can grow up to 17 in (43.2 cm) long. It inhabits freshwater pools and feeds on fish, insects, and small invertebrates. Unfortunately, this species is critically endangered and is threatened due in part to habitat degradation and being hunted for the food trade.

Photo: randall_f, CC BY-NC 4.0, iNaturalist