Giant South American River Turtle

The giant South American river turtle, also known as the Arrau turtle, is the largest freshwater turtle in Latin America. Scientifically named Podocnemis expansa, it belongs to the family Podocnemididae. These turtles are primarily found in the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo river basins, spanning countries like Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Guyana. Occasionally, they are spotted in Trinidad after floods. They inhabit deep rivers, ponds, freshwater lagoons, and flooded forests, thriving in white, black, and clear-water environments.
Adult Arrau turtles can weigh up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds) and have a carapace length of up to 1.07 meters (3.5 feet), although most are smaller. Their coloration varies from brown to olive-green, often influenced by algae growing on their shells. Males are generally smaller than females and can be distinguished by their longer tails and straighter carapaces.
These turtles are herbivorous, feeding mainly on fruits, seeds, leaves, and algae, though juveniles may also consume fish. They are diurnal and semi-aquatic, spending most of their time in water but basking in groups during the nesting season. Nesting occurs on sandy beaches, often in large colonies, which helps reduce predation risks. The species is known for its vocal communication, using distinct sounds during migration, basking, and nesting.