Species / Testudines taxon
Arabian Helmeted Turtle
Pelomedusa barbata
The Arabian helmeted turtle is a recently described species from the Arabian Peninsula, characterized by long barbels under the chin. It belongs to the African helmeted turtle genus Pelomedusa.
Lineage: Turtles and Tortoises (TESTUDINES) > Side-necked Turtles (PLEURODIRA) > Afro-American Side-necked Turtles Superfamily (PELOMEDUSOIDEA) > African Side-necked Turtles (PELOMEDUSIDAE) > Helmeted Turtles (Pelomedusa) > Arabian Helmeted Turtle (Pelomedusa barbata). This path helps place the taxon within its family, genus, or species-level context.
- Chinese Name
- 阿拉伯侧颈龟
- English Name
- Arabian Helmeted Turtle
- Scientific Name
- Pelomedusa barbata
- Rank
- Species
Plate notes
Pelomedusa barbata
Trivia
Described in 2014. Type locality: Zinjibar, Abyan, Yemen. The long barbels are a key distinguishing feature from other Pelomedusa species.
Overview
The Arabian helmeted turtle is a recently described species from the Arabian Peninsula, characterized by long barbels under the chin. It belongs to the African helmeted turtle genus Pelomedusa.
Scientific Name
Pelomedusa barbata
Ecological Habits
Aquatic, inhabits temporary water bodies such as pools and streams in arid regions. During dry seasons, estivates buried in mud. Omnivorous, feeds on aquatic plants, insects, and small vertebrates.
Major Threats & Conservation
Threats: habitat degradation from agriculture and urbanization, water extraction, pollution. Not yet evaluated by IUCN but provisionally listed as Endangered by TFTSG. Conservation actions: monitoring, habitat protection.
Morphological Characteristics
Maximum SCL: male 21.6 cm, female 20.1 cm (up to 25.0 cm). Unique feature: two to three long barbels under the chin (etymology: barbata meaning 'bearded'). Carapace dark, typically with yellow margins.
Natural Distribution & Conservation Status
Distribution: Saudi Arabia (Asir, Al-Behah, Makkah, Jizan) and Yemen. Estimated AOO: 89,533 km², EOO: 257,579 km². IUCN Red List: Not Evaluated. TFTSG Provisional Red List: Endangered (2016).
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