Stephen A. Dinkelacker* and Christopher A. Howey

Prior to gaining protection in 1993, alligator snapping turtles (Macrochelys temminckii) were an economically important species in Arkansas. However, data concerning basic demographic characteristics for the species are still largely unknown. Therefore, we initiated a mark-recapture study in 2005 to determine the status and potential recovery of a population suspected to have been previously exploited. Turtles were trapped in Cadron Creek, which is a slow-moving stream in central Arkansas. We marked each turtle and recorded morphometrics, mass, age, and growth. Turtles were sexually dimorphic, with males reaching larger sizes. Size distribution of the population shows a noticeable lack of large adult turtles. In fact, most of the turtles have just reached sexually maturity within recent years. Sex ratios were female biased (7:1), and the ratio of adults to juveniles was 2:1. Collectively, our data suggest this population was previously exploited, but recovery is occurring. The consequences of exploitation include a lack of older, large turtles and an abundance of females in the population. Future research should examine the genetic impacts of this altered population structure.
Macrochelys Session Oral

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