South american snake-necked turtle
The Argentine snake-necked turtle (Hydromedusa tectifera ), also known commonly as the South American snake-necked turtle is a species of turtle in the family Chelidae. The species is known for the long neck to which its common names refer. Despite appearances, the Argentine snake-necked turtle is probably more closely related to the mata mata (Chelus fimbriatus ) than to the Australian snake-necked turtles in the genus Chelodina. H. tectifera is found in southern Brazil, and northern Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina. Not much is known about it, as it has not been extensively researched. It is a popular pet in the exotic pet trade.
H. tectifera can reach up to 28 centimeters (11 inches) in straight carapace length. Its carapace is strongly keeled, and it can also be distinguished by black and yellowish markings along its head and neck. Generally, the females are larger than the males which often have larger tails.
