
Mesoclemmys hogei
Local name: Hoge’s Toadhead Turtle
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoge's_side-necked_turtle
Overview
Hoge's sideneck turtle (Ranacephala hogei) is a species of turtle in the family Chelidae. It is the only member of the genus Ranacephala. The species is endemic to the eastern Atlantic Forest of Brazil, primarily in the Carangola River of Minas Gerais and Paraíba do Sul River, Rio de Janeiro. The most documented population resides in the midsection of the Carangola River with an estimated population of less than 2000.
Hoge's Toadhead Turtle faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction and degradation due to agricultural expansion, urban development, and water pollution in its limited range in southeastern Brazil. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to local extinctions, while collection for the pet trade and road mortality further compound population declines.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hoge’s Toadhead Turtle classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Hoge’s Toadhead Turtle live?
What are the main threats to Hoge’s Toadhead Turtle?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.