Species Detail
Central American River Turtle
Turtles & Tortoises

Central American River Turtle

Dermatemys mawii

Habitat

Large rivers and lakes.

Range

Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala.

Adult Size

Up to 26 in (Up to 65 cm)

Diet

Fallen leaves and aquatic plants

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Conservation status:Critically Endangered

About this species

This is the sole surviving species of its family. It is almost completely aquatic and rarely leaves the water.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Central American River Turtle is aquatic — enrichment centers on water quality, basking, and foraging variety.

  • Provide varied water depth with deep areas for swimming and shallow shelves for resting.
  • Add a sturdy dry basking platform under heat and UV.
  • Introduce gentle water movement or aeration for sensory variety.
  • Scatter food in the water to encourage swimming and searching.
  • Include underwater cover and hiding spots to reduce stress.
  • Provide a dry haul-out area for basking and resting.

Housing & Social Behavior

Variable

Large species needing enormous tanks; keep alone if space is not exceptionally vast.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.

Reptifiles Husbandry Guides The Reptile Database IUCN SSC Reptile Specialist Group