Chrysemys

Chrysemys picta dorsalis (aka)

Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta picta) (49866261538) (cropped)

Chrysemys is a genus of turtles in the family Emydidae. Turtles belonging to this genus are commonly referred to as "painted turtles" due to their distinctive and colorful markings. They are native to North America, where they inhabit a wide range of freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers. Chrysemys species are highly adaptable and can be found from southern Canada to northern Mexico, making them one of the most widespread turtle genera in North America.

Description

Chrysemys turtles are characterized by their smooth, flat carapaces that are edged with red, yellow, or orange markings. The carapace color can vary from dark green to black, providing camouflage among aquatic vegetation. Their plastron (the underside of the shell) is usually yellow with a dark, central blotch. These turtles also have distinctive red, yellow, or orange stripes on their heads, legs, and tails.

Adults can vary in size depending on the species, but they generally range from 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 cm) in carapace length. Males are typically smaller than females and have longer front claws and a more concave plastron, which aids in mating.

Behavior

Chrysemys turtles are diurnal, spending much of their time basking in the sun on logs or rocks to regulate their body temperature. They are excellent swimmers and can dive to escape predators or to forage for food. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of aquatic vegetation, insects, fish, and carrion.

During the breeding season, males perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. After mating, females lay their eggs in nests dug into sandy or soft soil, often at a considerable distance from water. The eggs hatch in late summer or early fall, and the hatchlings must make their way to water on their own.

Conservation

While many populations of Chrysemys turtles are stable, they face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and road mortality. Some species and subspecies are considered at risk and are protected under various conservation laws. Conservation efforts for Chrysemys turtles include habitat protection, research, and public education to reduce human impact.

Species

The genus Chrysemys includes several species and subspecies, with the most widely known being the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta). Chrysemys picta is divided into four subspecies, which are distinguished by their geographic range and certain morphological features:

• Chrysemys picta picta (Eastern Painted Turtle)
• Chrysemys picta bellii (Western Painted Turtle)
• Chrysemys picta dorsalis (Southern Painted Turtle)
• Chrysemys picta marginata (Midland Painted Turtle)

See Also

• Turtle
• Emydidae
• Conservation status