Tortoises & turtles / Breeds
The Indian flapshell turtle is a fascinating freshwater turtle found across much of the Indian subcontinent. Recognised by its soft, leathery shell and the distinctive flaps of skin near its hind legs
Lissemys punctata
The Indian flapshell turtle is a fascinating freshwater turtle found across much of the Indian subcontinent. Recognised by its soft, leathery shell and the distinctive flaps of skin near its hind legs, it is remarkably well adapted to India's changing freshwater environments. Unlike hard-shelled turtles, its flexible shell and ability to burrow into mud help it survive in water bodies that may dry up seasonally. Although it is relatively widespread, the species faces considerable pressure from habitat destruction and illegal collection. In India, it is a protected wild animal and is not suitable for private pet ownership.
File:Lissemys punctata andersoni portrait.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
A necessary word on legality
The Indian flapshell turtle is native to India and receives the highest level of protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It is listed under Schedule I of the Act, as amended.
Capturing, hunting, possessing, buying, selling or transporting the species without the requisite legal authorisation is prohibited. It cannot be legally treated as an ordinary pet or purchased through conventional pet shops.
The species is also listed under Appendix II of CITES, which regulates international trade in wildlife.
If you encounter one in your garden, on a road or in a residential area, do not attempt to keep it. Contact the local Forest Department or a recognised wildlife rescue organisation.
Appearance and size
The Indian flapshell turtle has an oval, relatively flat and leathery shell, unlike the hard, scuted shells of many other freshwater turtles. Its upper shell is generally olive green, brown or greyish, sometimes featuring distinctive yellow spots.
Adults can grow up to approximately 35–37 centimetres in shell length, although many individuals are smaller. Females generally grow larger than males.
Its most distinctive features include the two movable flaps of skin on the underside of its shell, near the hind legs. These help cover the limbs when the turtle retracts into its shell. It also has a characteristic elongated neck, a short protruding snout and webbed feet that help it swim efficiently.
Habitat
The Indian flapshell turtle is found in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar. It inhabits a wide range of freshwater environments, including ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, irrigation canals and paddy fields.
It particularly favours shallow, slow-moving or stagnant water bodies with muddy or sandy bottoms. It is an adaptable species and can survive even when its habitat dries up for several months. During such periods, it burrows into the mud and enters a dormant state known as aestivation.
Diet
The Indian flapshell turtle is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet includes a variety of aquatic animals and plant matter.
Typical food sources include:
Its scavenging habits make it an important contributor to freshwater ecosystem health, helping process organic matter.
Temperament and behaviour
The Indian flapshell turtle is primarily aquatic and generally shy. It prefers to remain concealed in muddy bottoms or among aquatic vegetation, emerging to feed or move around its habitat.
It is not an animal that should be handled or disturbed. When threatened, it typically retreats into the water or buries itself in the substrate.
Its ability to aestivate during dry periods is one of its most remarkable adaptations. This allows it to survive seasonal changes in water availability that would be challenging for many other aquatic species.
Lifespan and conservation
Reliable information on the exact lifespan of the Indian flapshell turtle in the wild is limited. However, its generation length is estimated at approximately 15 years.
The species is classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List, with a declining population trend. Wetland destruction, collection for consumption, fishing-related mortality and pollution are among its major threats.
Its protection under India's Wildlife (Protection) Act is particularly important given the pressures on freshwater turtle populations.
The Indian flapshell turtle is an excellent example of how wildlife adapts to challenging environments. Protecting its wetlands and freshwater habitats is essential to ensuring that this remarkable native species continues to survive.
Research references:
Article content © S Vejay Anand. All rights reserved.
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