Swinhoe’s Softshell Turtle | 05 Aug 2021

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:
  
  • IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
  • CITES: Appendix II
• 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