The Peacock soft-shelled turtle, a vulnerable species, has recently been rescued from a fish market in Silchar, Assam. This incident has brought into focus the plight of this unique species and its fight for survival. The following segments shed light on the features, habitat, major threats, and conservation status of this unique creature.
Scientific Name and Features
Belonging to the Nilssonia Hurum species, the Peacock soft-shelled turtle is distinguishable by several physical characteristics. It possesses a large head and a downturned snout. The turtle’s carapace (shell) is low and oval in shape with a color spectrum that ranges from dark olive green to almost black. Sometimes, the edges may reflect a yellow rim. Most noticeable, perhaps, are the olive-green shades on the turtle’s head and limbs. However, it is the forehead that takes center stage with its dark reticulations (patterns) and large yellow or orange patches or spots that are especially prominent behind the eyes and across the snout. Between the sexes, the males exhibit relatively longer and thicker tails than their female counterparts.
Habitat
When it comes to habitat, the Peacock soft-shelled turtle is largely found in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Within India, its presence is widespread, particularly in the northern and central parts of the subcontinent. Favoring aquatic environments, the turtles can usually be spotted in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, specifically those with mud or sand bottoms.
Major Threats
Despite its fascinating features and contribution to biodiversity, the Peacock soft-shelled turtle faces severe threats. Regrettably, these turtles are heavily exploited for their meat and calipee (the outer cartilaginous rim of the shell), drawing them closer to extinction. Dangers specific to those dwelling in the River Ganga are synonymous with threats faced by all large river turtles. The reduction of fish stock due to overfishing takes a heavy toll on their ability to find food. Additionally, increasing pollution, heightened river traffic, and sand-mining activities further contribute to the decline of their habitat.
Conservation Status
The urgency of protecting the Peacock soft-shelled turtle is reflected in its conservation status. Under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, it has been enlisted in Schedule I, indicating its high priority for protection. Globally, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed it as ‘Vulnerable’ on their Red List. Moreover, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) includes it in Appendix I, thereby highlighting the necessity of stringent measures to protect this species from illegal trade.
The rescue of the Peacock soft-shelled turtle in Silchar, Assam, serves as a stark reminder of the much-needed attention to the plight of this unique creature. It underscores the importance of collective efforts in saving such endangered species from brink of extinction, ensuring biodiversity, and maintaining the balance of our ecosystem.
