Sicilian pond turtle
Sicilian pond turtle (Emys trinacris )
The Sicilian pond turtle (Emys trinacris ) is a turtle species in the genus Emys. The species was first described only in 2005 due to phylogenetic studies. Morphologically very similar to those based on the Italian mainland specimens of the subspecies Emys orbicularis galloitalica of the European pond turtle.
Description
The Sicilian pond turtle is dwarfed. The maximum length of the carapace ( Height ) is 14.5 inches, its color is dark gray to olive. Radial fine yellow lines run to the back-plates. The plastron is colored either mostly or completely yellow. The shields on the edges have a dark, narrow hem. Compared with Emys orbicularis of the carapace is less elongate, but sweeping oval and backward.
Occurrence
The distribution area of Emys trinacris is Sicily. This is indicated not only the German -language name, but also the scientific epithet trinacris under the old name " Trinacria " for Sicily towards. Possibly also the neighboring Calabria was first settled in the south mainland of Italy of this kind.
The Sicilian pond turtle occurs in the lowlands and in the mountains up to 1400 meters above sea front. Type locality is the Lago Gian Fenaro, a lake near the pass Pizzo Laminaria on the Nebrodian mountains in the north of Sicily. The type specimen, an adult male, is preserved in the Museo Zoologico " La Specola " in Florence.
Way of life
About the lifestyle no data are yet available, it probably resembles that of Emys orbicularis.