Found across China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, it is instantly recognizable by its flat, leathery shell, long snorkel-like snout, and wide, pancake-shaped body. Unlike the hard, domed shells of most turtles, its shell is flexible and smooth, covered in skin rather than hard scutes.
One of the most remarkable features of the Chinese softshell turtle is its breathing ability. In addition to using its lungs, it can absorb oxygen through its throat and skin while submerged, which allows it to stay underwater for long periods. Even more bizarre, scientists discovered that it can excrete waste through its mouth by flushing water in and out of its throat lining—a highly unusual trait in the animal kingdom. These adaptations make it extremely well-suited to life in shallow, muddy water where hiding and conserving energy are key to survival.
Diet-wise, the Chinese softshell turtle is an opportunistic carnivore. It feeds on fish, insects, worms, snails, crustaceans, and aquatic plants, but it is also known to scavenge when the opportunity arises. Its long neck and sharp jaws allow it to snap quickly at prey, making it an efficient hunter. Unlike many other turtles that are slow-moving on land, this species is surprisingly fast and agile both in water and on the ground, which adds to its unusual reputation.
Culturally, the Chinese softshell turtle holds great importance. It has been farmed for centuries in China for food and traditional medicine, making it one of the most commonly raised turtles in the world. In fact, turtle farming has made the species abundant in captivity, even though wild populations in some regions have declined due to over-collection and habitat loss. In folklore, it has sometimes symbolized adaptability and resilience, reflecting its ability to survive in a wide variety of habitats, from rivers and lakes to rice paddies and marshes.
Distribution
China
Japan
Taiwan
Thailand
United States
VietnamAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
