Scorpion Mud Turtle
VU

Scorpion Mud Turtle

Kinosternon scorpioides

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scorpion_mud_turtle

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Scorpion Mud Turtle faces significant pressure from habitat destruction as wetlands across its range are drained for agriculture and urban development. Collection for the pet trade has intensified in recent decades, with thousands exported annually from South America to international markets. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and mining activities degrades the aquatic ecosystems this species depends on for feeding and reproduction.

Threat summary

Habitat

This semi-aquatic turtle inhabits slow-moving freshwater environments including swamps, marshes, ponds, and seasonal wetlands throughout tropical South America. It prefers shallow waters with abundant vegetation and soft substrates where it can burrow during dry periods.

FRESHWATER· majorTERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Scorpion Mud Turtle classified as Vulnerable?
Scorpion Mud Turtle is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Scorpion Mud Turtle faces significant pressure from habitat destruction as wetlands across its range are drained for agriculture and urban development. Collection for the pet trade has intensified in recent decades, with thousands exported annually from South America to international markets. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and mining activities degrades the aquatic ecosystems this species depends on for feeding and reproduction.
Where does Scorpion Mud Turtle live?
Scorpion Mud Turtle occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Scorpion Mud Turtle?
The main threats to Scorpion Mud Turtle are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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.