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Important Facts For Prelims

Swinhoe’s Softshell Turtle

  • 05 Aug 2021
  • 1 min read

Why in News

In recent years, a lot of efforts have been put by the conservationists to save the world’s most endangered turtle, Swinhoe's softshell turtle from the brink of extinction.

  • The animal is also known as the Hoan Kiem turtle or Yangtze giant softshell turtle.
  • In Vietnam, these animals have great cultural significance as people in Hanoi revere this creature as a living god.

Key Points

  • Scientific Name: Rafetus swinhoei
    • These turtles are gray with light gray or yellow spots.
  • Significance:
    • Some researchers have highlighted their importance to the seafloor biosystem, where they contribute by enriching soil nutrients and facilitating seed dispersion.
  • Habitat:
    • The natural habitat for these turtles are wetlands and large lakes.
    • Native to China and Vietnam.
  • Protection Status:
  • Threats:
    • They have been driven to the brink by hunting for its meat and eggs, as well as by destruction of its habitat.

Source: DTE

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