Native to southern China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, and parts of Japan, it is closely tied to traditional beliefs and is sometimes called the Golden Turtle because of its distinctive appearance. Unlike the darker, ridged shells of the Chinese pond turtle (M. reevesii), the yellow pond turtle has a smoother, oval carapace, usually brown to olive in color, paired with a yellowish plastron (underside) that gives the species its name. The head is marked with elegant stripes or speckling, often with a yellow streak running along the sides, making it one of the most visually appealing Mauremys turtles.

What sets this species apart is its semi-terrestrial lifestyle. While it spends plenty of time in rivers, streams, and ponds, the Yellow Pond Turtle often ventures onto land, hiding in damp vegetation or soil during the day and becoming more active at dusk. It is an omnivore, feeding on aquatic plants, small fish, snails, worms, and fruits. This flexibility allows it to survive in varied habitats, from mountain streams to lowland wetlands.

Culturally, the yellow pond turtle holds a special place in Chinese folklore and symbolism. In Chinese tradition, turtles represent longevity, wisdom, and protection, and the Yellow Pond Turtle in particular has been regarded as a good-luck symbol. Because of this, it has often been kept in temple ponds and household gardens as a living charm. Sadly, this cultural demand has also contributed to its decline in the wild, as wild individuals are often captured for religious use, traditional medicine, or ornamental keeping.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

China

2018

Japan

2018

Nansei-Shoto

Laos

2018

Taiwan

2018

Vietnam

2018