Red-Eared Slider Turtle

Red-Eared Slider Turtle Latest News

Red-eared slider turtle, an invasive turtle species that got circulated across countries through pet trade poses a threat to water bodies in Coimbatore.

About Red-Eared Slider Turtle

• It is one of the world’s most widely introduced freshwater turtles.
• Habitat:   It is predominantly aquatic, becoming terrestrial only when expanding its range.
• Distribution: It now has an established distribution across all continents except Antarctica.
• Appearance: It is known for its distinct red stripes behind each ear.

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Characteristics of Red-Eared Slider Turtle

• It is highly adaptable and can survive under sub-optimal temperature conditions.
• Its flexibility allows it to thrive in non-native environments.
• These species exhibit aggressive hunting behaviour during certain periods.
• One such phase is during pregnancy, when the turtle requires excess food and easily preys on native aquatic species.
• Life Span: In the wild, red sliders can live from 20 to 50 years.
• Conservation Status: IUCN: Least Concerned

Issues of Red-Eared Sliders Turtle

• They breed quickly and expand unchecked due to the absence of natural predators.
• The species competes directly with India’s native turtles for basking sites, nesting grounds and food.
• It shows aggressive behaviour and higher consumption patterns also affect fish population, disturbing freshwater ecosystems

Source: TH