Myuchelys bellii

Bell's turtle is a freshwater species belonging to the family Chelidae, distinguished by a broad, flattened shell and a long neck typical of side-necked turtles, which it retracts sideways rather than straight back into its shell. It is primarily carnivorous and omnivorous, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, algae, and organic debris, and plays a role in maintaining water quality by scavenging and controlling invertebrate populations within its river systems. Females leave the water to lay eggs in sandy or rocky banks, a behaviour that exposes nests to significant risk.

The species is endemic to inland river systems in eastern Australia, particularly associated with the Namoi and Gwydir river catchments in New South Wales. It favors rocky riverbeds and adjacent wetland habitats, requiring clean, well-oxygenated flowing water and stable banks for nesting.

Population numbers are not precisely known, though the species is classified as Endangered, with an unknown population trend. Major threats include agricultural runoff and water pollution degrading water quality, and water extraction and flow modification altering the river systems it depends on. Introduced predators, such as foxes, destroy a substantial proportion of nests before hatching, while cattle trampling further damages nesting sites along riverbanks.

Urban development along waterways continues to fragment and degrade remaining habitat.

Conservation efforts include nest protection programs, predator control initiatives targeting fox populations near nesting sites, and habitat rehabilitation projects along affected river systems. Water quality monitoring and catchment management measures have also been implemented in parts of its range.

The species' outlook remains uncertain. While targeted conservation actions have reduced some nest predation losses, ongoing water extraction, agricultural pollution, and habitat degradation continue to threaten long-term population stability.

Bell's turtle inhabits permanent and semi-permanent freshwater systems including rivers, creeks, and associated wetlands in eastern Australia. The species requires sandy banks and beaches for nesting, along with aquatic vegetation and fallen timber for shelter and foraging.