Alejandro Fallabrino1, Andrés Estrades1 & Sabrina Clavijo-Baquet2

The black spine-necked swamp turtle, Acanthochelys spixii, is one of the five freshwater turtles inhabiting Uruguay. It is found in Argentina (Paraná River) and south of Brazil. In Uruguay, it is distributed in the East and Northeast regions, in the areas of Rocha, Rivera, Tacuarembó, Treinta y Tres and Maldonado. Rocha has the highest number of records for this species. This research presents the most recent information for this species in the newly created Cerro Verde Coastal-Marine Protected Area and zones of influence. The turtles from this study were found in small, permanent or temporary ponds, were buried, or found crossing pathways and roads inside the area. From a total of 25 turtles examined, 16 were adults (SCLn-t x 15.97 cm), 6 were juveniles (SCLn-t x 10.04 cm) and 3 were hatchlings (SCLn-t x 4.33 cm). Although reproductive aspects have not been observed, a female with developing eggs inside her body was found dead. The principal threats on freshwater turtles of this region are the illegal trade, habitat destruction or degradation road mortality. In Uruguay this species is included in the “Official List of Species of the Wild Fauna” (Decree 514/001), protected by law (Decree 164/996) and categorized as a near threatened species (IUCN). Lack of information about this species makes these investigations of vital importance to develop effective conservation strategies.
Poster Session

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