The eastern mud turtle is a small, common species in the eastern United States. It is known for its ability to produce a strong musky odor when threatened.
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) > Shield Mud Turtles Subgenus (Kinosternon (Thyrosternum)) > Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon (Thyrosternum) subrubrum). This path helps place the taxon within its family, genus, or species-level context.
Plate page 149
Chinese Name
头盔动胸龟
English Name
Eastern Mud Turtle
Scientific Name
Kinosternon (Thyrosternum) subrubrum
Rank
Species
Plate notes
Kinosternon subrubrum
Trivia
It was originally described as Testudo subrubra. The common name 'mud turtle' refers to its muddy habitat. It is one of the few turtles that can close its shell completely.
Overview
The eastern mud turtle is a small, common species in the eastern United States. It is known for its ability to produce a strong musky odor when threatened.
Scientific Name
Kinosternon subrubrum
Ecological Habits
Inhabits shallow freshwater habitats like ponds, marshes, and ditches. Omnivorous, eating aquatic insects, small fish, carrion, and plants. Hibernates underwater or on mud banks.
Major Threats & Conservation
Threatened by habitat destruction and road mortality. Not heavily exploited, but local declines occur. Conservation includes wetland preservation.
Morphological Characteristics
Carapace up to 125 mm, smooth, olive to dark brown, often with faint streaks. Plastron with two hinges, yellow to brown. Head and neck are dark with light markings.
Natural Distribution & Conservation Status
Ranges from New England to Florida and west to Texas. Common and widespread, listed as Least Concern. Populations are stable in most areas.
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