Pangshura sylhetensis

Pangshura sylhetensis, commonly known as the Assam roofed turtle, is a critically endangered freshwater turtle endemic to the wetlands and river systems of northeastern India and Bangladesh. This medium-sized turtle reaches approximately 35-40 centimeters in shell length, distinguished by its distinctive domed carapace with prominent vertebral keels that give it the characteristic 'roofed' appearance. The shell displays a dark brown to olive coloration with subtle yellow markings, while the head features intricate yellow striping patterns against a darker background.

Males are typically smaller than females and develop longer, thicker tails during maturity. The species inhabits slow-moving rivers, oxbow lakes, and seasonal wetlands within the Brahmaputra River basin, particularly in Assam's floodplains and the Sylhet region of Bangladesh from which it derives its scientific name. These turtles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, fruits, and occasionally small invertebrates.

Classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, Pangshura sylhetensis faces severe population declines due to habitat destruction and collection pressure. The species exhibits strong site fidelity, returning to specific nesting beaches along riverbanks during the dry season. Encouragingly, recent conservation efforts have established protected nesting sites in Kaziranga National Park, and local community engagement programs in Bangladesh have shown promise in reducing collection pressure, offering hope for this remarkable turtle's survival.

This species inhabits slow-moving freshwater environments including oxbow lakes, seasonal wetlands, and quiet backwaters of the Brahmaputra River system in northeastern India and Bangladesh. They prefer areas with abundant aquatic vegetation and sandy or muddy banks suitable for nesting, typically at elevations below 200 meters.