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Mata mata
Chelus fimbriatus
-3.75, -73.25
Field Notes
Description:
Aquatic turtle of the Amazon River Basin. Flattened, leaf-shaped head, and coloration allow the mata mata blend into its surrounding on the bottom of shallow streams in wait for passing fish.
Habitat:
Found in shallow, slow moving streams. The mata mata rarely leaves water for land other than to lay eggs.
Notes:
Its cryptic coloration allows this turtle disappear into its surroundings among the leaf litter on the bottom of a stream. It will wait patiently for fish to pass in front it, and then suck them into its throat with a sudden opening of its mouth. The mata mata will then spit out debris, while swallowing the fish.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedJanuary 8, 2012
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