Exciting Discovery: Rare 'Black Softshell' Turtle Identified in Nepal

In a thrilling revelation, scientists have identified a new species of turtle in Betana Wetland, also known as Betana Simsar, located in Belbari, Morang District of Nepal. The 'Black Softshell' turtle, previously mistaken for the Peacock Turtle, has now been recognized as a distinct species for Nepal, with numbers surpassing two dozen.

Environmental journalist and associate professor of zoology, Ramchandra Adhikari, shared, "While the Black Softshell turtle has been a resident of Betana Wetland for years, it was initially dubbed the Peacock Turtle. However, upon closer examination of its shell, it's clear we're looking at a species previously unidentified in Nepal."

This groundbreaking discovery was made in 2022 by a team led by Austrian scientist Dr. Peter Praschag, in collaboration with Nepali counterparts. The scientific community now recognizes this turtle as 'Nilssonia nigricans'.

Tapil Prakash Rai, a member of the research team, highlighted the turtle's critical status, as it's listed as 'critically endangered' by the IUCN. Weighing in at a hefty 70 to 80 kilograms, this gentle, human-friendly creature might resemble the Peacock Turtle at first glance, but Rai assures it's a different species altogether.

Despite the significant focus on conserving larger animals, turtles have unfortunately been overlooked. Conservationists are now urging the government to shift their attention to these vital creatures. Nepal is home to 17 species and two subspecies of turtles, with 13 boasting hard shells and four with soft shells.

The Black Softshell Turtle, predominantly found in Eastern Nepal, faces threats from habitat destruction due to man-made structures in wetlands. Furthermore, unchecked poaching poses a significant risk to this species, which is native to Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Active primarily at night, the Black Softshell Turtle feeds on insects, fish, and smaller animals. It breeds between June and July, laying 20 to 30 eggs between August and November. Preferring muddy habitats, the male of the species is slightly larger than the female. Alarmingly, this turtle is among the most poached in Nepal. A 2018 report by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation highlighted its presence in Sunsari, Chitwan, and Bardiya, but much remains to be discovered about this enigmatic creature.