Species Detail
South American Giant Side-neck
Turtles & Tortoises

South American Giant Side-neck

Podocnemis sextuberculata

Habitat

Large rivers.

Range

Amazon Basin

Adult Size

Up to 12 in (Up to 30 cm)

Diet

Omnivorous

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Conservation status:Vulnerable

About this species

This species is notable for the six tubercles (bumps) on its shell, which are most visible in younger individuals. It is one of the smaller river turtles in the family.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

South American Giant Side-neck is aquatic โ€” 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

Groups

Social animals that display better behavioral health in stable group settings.

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