Amyda cartilaginea
VU

Amyda cartilaginea

Unknown

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

Overview

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

The Asiatic softshell turtle faces severe pressure from intensive harvesting for food markets and traditional medicine throughout Southeast Asia, where it is considered a delicacy and valued for perceived medicinal properties. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion, urban development, and dam construction has fragmented river systems and reduced nesting sites. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge further compromises the aquatic environments this species depends on for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Amyda cartilaginea inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, ponds, and wetlands across Southeast Asia, preferring muddy or sandy bottoms where it can burrow. The species is found in both natural waterways and artificial water bodies including rice paddies and irrigation canals.

FRESHWATER· major

Conservation measures underway

Legislation

Other threatened species in TRIONYCHIDAE

VU

Southern New Guinea Giant Softshell Turtle

Pelochelys bibroni

Unknown
VU

African Softshell Turtle

Trionyx triunguis

Declining
VU

Chinese Softshell Turtle

Pelodiscus sinensis

Declining
VU

Sri Lankan Flapshell Turtle

Lissemys ceylonensis

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Amyda cartilaginea classified as Vulnerable?
Amyda cartilaginea 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 Asiatic softshell turtle faces severe pressure from intensive harvesting for food markets and traditional medicine throughout Southeast Asia, where it is considered a delicacy and valued for perceived medicinal properties. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion, urban development, and dam construction has fragmented river systems and reduced nesting sites. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge further compromises the aquatic environments this species depends on for survival.
Where does Amyda cartilaginea live?
Amyda cartilaginea 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 Amyda cartilaginea?
The main threats to Amyda cartilaginea 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.

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