Razorback Musk Turtle - Georgia Aquarium

These small turtles are born with a high, strong ridge or “dorsal keel”. This feature is an identifying characteristic of razorback musk turtles. This species prefers streams and river systems in middle Texas, southern Oklahoma, Arkansas and southern Mississippi with gravel or sandy substrate and dead wood for basking and hiding.

Size
5.1 to 6.3 inches
Diet
Fish, snails, crustaceans, clams, aquatic insects
Range
North America
Habitat
Streams and river systems with gravel or sandy substrate

Physical Characteristics

Razorback musk turtle ranges in color from olive green to shades of gray and tan. The head and feet are usually marked with darker speckling or streaking, and the carapace is similarly marked.
A high, strong ridge or “dorsal keel,” is an identifying feature of this species. It is especially noticeable in hatchlings and juveniles.
Carapace is commonly 5.1 – 6.3 inches (13 – 16cm) long with a maximum size of 8.3 inches (20.9 cm).

Animal Fact
Razorback musk turtles are a favorite of home aquarists because of their small size and ease of care.

Diet / Feeding

Diet consists of fish, snails, crustaceans, clams and aquatic insects.

Range / Habitat

Occurs in North America from middle Texas and southern Oklahoma through Arkansas and southern Mississippi.
Most often found in streams and river systems with gravel or sandy substrate. Also found in lakes and swamps. The razorback musk turtle appears to prefer habitats with the presence of dead wood for basking and hiding under.

Reproduction & Growth

Reproductive maturity is reached between the ages of four to eight years, at a size of about 3.0 – 4.7 (8 – 12 cm).
Females typically produce two or three clutches per year. A single clutch usually consists of one to seven eggs.
Hatchlings range in length from 0.9 to 1.1 inches (25 – 28 mm).