The white-lipped mud turtle is a small to medium-sized species known for the white or pale coloration on the margins of the jaws. It is part of the subgenus Cryptochelys.
Lineage: Turtles and Tortoises (TESTUDINES) > Cryptodira (CRYPTODIRA) > Durocryptodira (DUROCRYPTODIRA) > Snapping Turtles Superfamily (CHELYDROIDEA) > Mud and Musk Turtles (KINOSTERNIDAE) > Mud Turtles Subfamily (KINOSTERNINAE) > Mud Turtles (Kinosternon) > Hidden Mud Turtles Subgenus (Kinosternon (Cryptochelys)) > White-lipped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon (Cryptochelys) leucostomum). This path helps place the taxon within its family, genus, or species-level context.
Plate page 144
Chinese Name
白吻动胸龟
English Name
White-lipped Mud Turtle
Scientific Name
Kinosternon (Cryptochelys) leucostomum
Rank
Species
Plate notes
Kinosternon leucostomum
Trivia
The name 'leucostomum' means 'white mouth' in Greek, referring to the light-colored jaw margins. It was originally described as Cinosternon leucostomum.
Overview
The white-lipped mud turtle is a small to medium-sized species known for the white or pale coloration on the margins of the jaws. It is part of the subgenus Cryptochelys.
Scientific Name
Kinosternon leucostomum
Ecological Habits
Inhabits streams, rivers, and wetlands. Primarily carnivorous, feeding on insects, crustaceans, and small fish. Nocturnal and secretive, often hiding under debris.
Major Threats & Conservation
Habitat loss due to agriculture and urban development, as well as collection for the pet trade. Protected in some areas, but enforcement is weak.
Morphological Characteristics
Carapace reaches about 160 mm, brown with lighter markings. Head is dark with a distinct white or yellow stripe on the jaw and chin. Plastron hinged, yellow to brown.
Natural Distribution & Conservation Status
Found from southern Mexico to northern South America, including the Pacific and Atlantic drainages. Listed as Least Concern overall, but some populations face localized threats.
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