The Astonishing Size Of Fully Grown Softshell Turtles

Softshell turtles are characterised by their flattened, pancake-like bodies and long necks. Unlike most turtles, their shells are soft, flat, and rubbery, and covered in leathery skin. The size of a softshell turtle varies depending on the species and its gender, with females typically being larger than males. The average carapace length of an adult female softshell turtle ranges from 7 to 25 inches (18 to 64 centimeters), while an adult male softshell turtle grows between 5 to 12 inches (13 to 31 centimeters). The largest softshell turtle species is the Asian giant softshell, with a shell length of more than 3 feet.

The largest softshell turtles

Softshell turtles exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning there are distinct physical differences between males and females. The female softshell turtles are larger than the male ones, with adult females growing between 7 to 25 inches (18 to 64 centimeters) and adult males growing between 5 to 12 inches (13 to 31 centimeters) on average. The largest species of softshell turtle found in North America is the Florida softshell turtle, which can grow up to 29.9 inches (76 cm) in carapace length. The largest trionychine softshell turtles are the narrow-headed softshell (Chitra indica) and the Asian giant softshell (Pelochelys bibroni), whose shells reach lengths of more than 3.3 feet (1 meter).

The Florida Softshell Turtle

The Florida softshell turtle (Apalone ferox) is the largest species of softshell turtle found in Florida and all of North America. It is a widespread species, occupying almost every freshwater habitat and even some brackish environments. Adult females of this species can reach weights of up to 43.6 kg (96 lb) and carapace lengths of up to 40.1 cm (15.8 inches), while males have a carapace length and body weight averaging 35 cm (14 inches) and 2.68 kg (5.9 lb) respectively.

The Spiny Softshell Turtle

The spiny softshell turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. Adult females can have a carapace length ranging from 7 to 19 inches (18 to 48 centimeters), while males have a smaller carapace length of 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters). The eastern spiny softshell turtle, found in Vermont, has a maximum carapace length of about 8 inches for males and 21 inches for females, who can weigh up to 25 pounds.

The Asian Giant Softshell

The Asian giant softshell (Pelochelys bibroni) is one of the largest trionychine softshells, with a shell length of more than 3.3 feet (1 meter). This species is found in Southeast Asia.

The Narrow-Headed Softshell

The narrow-headed softshell (Chitra indica) is another one of the largest trionychine softshells, with a shell length of more than 3.3 feet (1 meter). This species is also native to Southeast Asia.

Size differences between male and female turtles

Softshell turtles exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism, with female softshell turtles consistently growing bigger than their male counterparts. The average carapace length of an adult female softshell turtle ranges from 7 to 25 inches (18 to 64 centimeters), while an adult male softshell turtle typically measures between 5 and 12 inches (13 to 31 centimeters). This size difference is observed across various subspecies of softshell turtles.

For example, the Florida softshell turtle (Apalone ferox), native to the southeastern United States, exhibits significant size dimorphism. Adult females are often 3-5 times larger than males. Males have an average carapace length of about 35 cm (14 inches) and a body weight of around 2.68 kg (5.9 lb). In contrast, nesting adult females were found to have an average weight of 6.65 kg (14.7 lb) and a carapace length of 40.1 cm (15.8 inches), with the record weight documented at 43.6 kg (96 lb).

The spiny softshell turtle, found throughout most of the United States, also displays noticeable size differences between the sexes. An adult female spiny softshell turtle's carapace can range from 7 to 19 inches (18 to 48 centimeters) in length. In contrast, the male's carapace is significantly smaller, typically measuring between 5 and 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters) in length.

The Asiatic softshell turtle is another example of a subspecies where females attain larger sizes than males. Adult female Asiatic softshell turtles grow to an average carapace length of 27.6 to 31.5 inches (70 to 80 centimeters), while their male counterparts reach a length of 27.6 to 31.5 inches (70 to 80 centimeters).

The size disparity between male and female softshell turtles is not limited to carapace length but also extends to body weight. For instance, in the Florida softshell turtle species, females are not only longer but also heavier than males, with a maximum recorded weight of 43.6 kg (96 lb) for females compared to an average weight of 2.68 kg (5.9 lb) for males.

The factors contributing to these size differences between male and female softshell turtles are likely a combination of genetics, diet, habitat, and growth factors.

How the turtle's environment affects its growth

Softshell turtles are native to the southeastern United States, and they are the largest species of softshell turtles found in North America. The size of a softshell turtle depends on its species, gender, diet, habitat, and other factors.

The average carapace length of an adult female softshell turtle can be between 7 to 25 inches or 18 to 64 centimeters. On the other hand, an adult male softshell turtle grows between 5 to 12 inches or 13 to 31 centimeters. The Florida softshell turtle, the largest of the New World softshell turtles, ranges from 15 to 76 cm (5.9 to 29.9 in) in straight-line carapace length.

The growth of a softshell turtle is influenced by various factors, including:

Gender

Female softshell turtles are generally larger than male softshell turtles, exhibiting significant sexual size dimorphism. This means that the females can be up to 3-5 times larger than the males.

Diet

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for the growth of softshell turtles. A lack of essential minerals and vitamins can hamper their growth. It is recommended to sprinkle vitamin D3 and calcium supplements on each meal. Softshell turtles are mostly carnivorous, and their diet includes feeder fish, minnows, worms, and pellets.

Habitat

The suitability of a softshell turtle's habitat can significantly impact its growth. Unhygienic tank water, improper temperature ranges, incorrect humidity levels, and inadequate basking or land areas can affect the turtle's health and growth. The temperature for softshell turtles should ideally be maintained between 74 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

Activity and Dormancy

Both recreational activities and dormancy periods are important for the carapace growth of softshell turtles. Providing sufficient land and water space for the turtle to move freely is essential, as a lack of space can cause stress. Additionally, proper hibernation is necessary for optimal growth. For example, putting a baby softshell turtle into hibernation too early can impact its growth.

Genetics

The size of a softshell turtle can also be influenced by its subspecies and genetics. Some subspecies are naturally larger than others due to their genetic makeup.

Captivity vs. Wild

The growth rate of softshell turtles in captivity is slower than that of wild turtles. Even with optimal habitat conditions, captive turtles may not reach their full growth potential.

In summary, the environment and various external factors play a crucial role in the growth and development of softshell turtles. Providing a suitable habitat, an appropriate diet, and considering the specific needs of each turtle can help ensure healthy growth.

How long it takes for a softshell turtle to reach maturity

Softshell turtles vary in size depending on their species or subspecies. The average carapace length of an adult female softshell turtle ranges from 7 to 25 inches (18 to 64 centimeters), while an adult male softshell turtle grows between 5 to 12 inches (13 to 31 centimeters). The largest softshell turtle species is the Asian giant softshell turtle, which can reach lengths of up to 39 inches (100 centimeters).

Now, onto the question of how long it takes for a softshell turtle to reach maturity. According to a study, male softshell turtles typically reach sexual maturity at a smaller size, allowing them to reproduce quickly. Male Florida softshell turtles, for example, reach sexual maturity at a length of about 15 centimeters (6 inches) and a weight of below 0.7 kg. This means that some males may be able to reproduce as young as two years of age.

Female softshell turtles, on the other hand, reach sexual maturity at a larger size. Female Florida softshell turtles become sexually mature when they reach a length of 20 centimeters (8 inches) or a plastron length of 24-30 cm. The onset of sexual maturity for females occurs between 5 and 8 years of age.

It's worth noting that the growth rate of softshell turtles can be influenced by various factors such as genetics, diet, habitat conditions, and activity levels. In captivity, the growth rate of softshell turtles tends to be slower compared to their wild counterparts.

How to ensure a softshell turtle grows healthily

Softshell turtles are fascinating creatures, and ensuring they grow healthily requires a combination of proper care and knowledge of their specific needs. Here are some detailed guidelines to promote the healthy growth of your softshell turtle:

Provide a Suitable Habitat

Create an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Softshell turtles are aquatic and prefer dwelling in slow-moving or still freshwater bodies with sandy or muddy bottoms. Ensure the water is clean by installing a filter to regulate pH and chlorine levels. Maintain a suitable temperature between 74 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and provide a basking area with a smooth glass shelf just below the water surface for them to rest and breathe.

Offer a Balanced Diet

Softshell turtles are primarily carnivorous, so their diet should consist of meat and protein-rich food. Offer a variety of foods such as feeder fish, minnows, worms, crayfish, insects, mollusks, amphibians, and vitamin D3 and calcium supplements. Feed young turtles enough food once a day, and as they mature, transition to a thrice-weekly diet.

Ensure Proper Activity and Rest

Provide ample space for recreational activities to keep your turtle active and stress-free. Both land and water areas are essential for their well-being. Maintain a suitable dormancy period, especially during colder months, as softshell turtles are sensitive to temperature changes and may hibernate for extended periods.

Maintain Hygiene and Consult Vets for Abnormalities

Keep the tank water hygienic to prevent illnesses. Regularly clean and maintain the habitat, and if you notice any unusual behavior or physical abnormalities, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Other Considerations

Be mindful of the subspecies and gender of your softshell turtle, as growth rates and sizes vary significantly. Additionally, be cautious when handling these turtles, as they are known for their aggressive nature and will attack if threatened.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific needs of your softshell turtle, you can ensure it grows healthily and reaches its full potential.

Frequently asked questions