Pelodiscus sinensis (Gray, 1844) Family: Trionychidae Chinese Softshell Turtle Status: Established
Description: The Chinese softshell turtle is unique among the established freshwater species in the Marianas in having a soft leathery carapace. The carapace is grey to brown in color and the plastron is white to yellow. The head and limbs are generally the same color as the carapace though the throat can be a lighter color. Juveniles are similarly colored to the adults except they have a pattern of small dark spots on the carapace and large dark blotches on the plastron. Adults can reach up to 25 cm CL.
Biology: P. sinensis is a predominantly aquatic turtle that rarely basks. In its native range it is most often found in bodies of water with a slow current. Adults and juveniles are carnivorous and feed heavily on fish and crustaceans.
Distribution: This turtle is native to China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Hainan Island. It has been introduced to Hawaii, the Bonin Islands, Timor and Japan (Ernst and Barbour 1989). It has also been introduced to Guam where it persists in rivers and fish ponds on the southeast part of the island.
Ernst C. H. and R.W. Barbour. 1989. Turtles of the World. Smithsonian Institute. 313 pp.