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Hot: 3 to 5 °C
Cold: -3 to 4 °C
2K to 6K USD
1 to 10 PSI
Swimming: 1-2 Miles per hour (2-4 km/h)
Animal Type: Omnivores
Dermatemys mawii, more often known as the "hickatee" or "tortuga blanca," is an old and distinctive species of river turtle that originated in the freshwater ecosystems of Central American lagoons, lakes, and rivers. Belize, Guatemala, and the southern part of Mexico are the main habitats for this turtle. It is one of the most ancient turtle species that has survived to the present day since it is a member of the Dermatemydidae family, which has been there since the dinosaur era. The ecological relevance and need of this species' preservation are underscored by the length of its evolutionary history.
Dermatemys mawii is easily identifiable by its large size and unique shell. The smooth outer shell, or carapace, may be any shade from gray to olive, while the bottom shell, or plastron, is usually lighter, often a creamy yellow. The maximum weight for an adult is 20 kilograms (about 44 pounds), and their maximum length is 65 centimeters (about 25 inches). The Central American river turtle is unusual among turtle species in that it shows little to no sexual dimorphism; the sexes seem quite similar, with the exception that females are often bigger.
Dermatemys mawii, more often known as the "hickatee" or "tortuga blanca," is a long-lived species of river turtle that lives in the freshwater ecosystems of Central American lagoons, lakes, and rivers. The Dermatemydidae family has a rich and storied history that begins with the dinosaurs.
This particular turtle is most often seen in Belize, Guatemala, and the southern region of Mexico. The fact that it has persisted for millions of years shows how important it is to preserve this ancient species for ecological reasons.