The spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera) is a species of softshell turtle, one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. Both the common name, spiny softshell, and the specific name, spinifera (spine-bearing), refer to the spiny, cone-like projections on the leading edge of the carapace, which are not scutes (scales).

The spiny softshell turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. They can be distinguished from other turtle species by their carapace. Unlike most other turtles, their shell is soft, flat, and rubbery.

The spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera) is a species of softshell turtle, one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. Both the common name, spiny softshell, and the specific name, spinifera (spine-bearing), refer to the spiny, cone-like projections on the leading edge of the carapace, which are not scutes (scales).

2023年11月9日 · The spiny softshell turtle possesses a distinctive pancake-flat, leathery carapace (shell) that lacks the typical scutes (hardened, bony plates) seen on most turtles. At the front edge of the carapace are the small, spine-like projections that give the turtle its name.

Identification: Like most trionychids (softshell turtles), Apalone spinifera (spiny softshell) lacks a hard shell and has a round, flattened, leathery carapace (upper shell). This turtle has a long neck and a snorkel-like, elongated snout with large nostrils containing ridges that extend from each septum (Webb, 1973; Gibbs et al., 2007).

General description: Spiny Softshells have a brown to olive-green carapace. The females are blotched and the males are uniformly colored with dark spots. The shell is round and leathery. The leading edge of the carapace has enlarged points called tubercles. This gives them a spiny appearance. The plastron is white to cream.

2016年3月2日 · Spiny softshell turtles are the only softshell turtles found in Canada. Although they look harmless, they can get very aggressive and bite. Spiny softshell turtles remain underwater from October - April.