Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle (IMAGE)

Wildlife Conservation Society

Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle

Caption

One of the last of its kind: a Yangtze giant softshell turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) surfaces in a lake in Vietnam. Once occurring in the river basins of China and Vietnam, the turtle (which can weigh up to 250 pounds) has been decimated as a result of wetland destruction, and water pollution, and poaching. Only four individuals are known to exist.

Credit

Brian D. Horne/Wildlife Conservation Society

Usage Restrictions

One-time usage only. Use photo credit.

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.