Burmese Peacock Softshell
Nilssonia formosa
Photo: Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Nilssonia formosa faces severe population decline primarily due to intensive harvesting for food and traditional medicine, with adults and eggs collected from nesting beaches and river systems. Habitat degradation from dam construction, sand mining, and agricultural expansion has fragmented remaining populations across the Mekong River basin. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge further compromises the aquatic ecosystems this species depends upon for survival.
Habitat
This large softshell turtle inhabits the Mekong River system and its tributaries, preferring deep pools and slow-flowing sections with sandy or muddy bottoms. The species requires sandy riverbanks and islands for nesting, typically selecting sites with loose substrate near permanent water sources.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in TRIONYCHIDAE
Threatened in China
Frequently asked questions
Why is Burmese Peacock Softshell classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Burmese Peacock Softshell live?
What are the main threats to Burmese Peacock Softshell?
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