Sicilian pond turtle

The Sicilian pond turtle (Emys trinacris)^[2] is a species of turtle in the family Emydidae. The species is endemic to Sicily.^[2]

Sicilian pond turtle
Emys trinacris from Gorghi Tondi, Province of Trapani, Sicily.
Conservation status
Data Deficient  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Testudines
Suborder:	Cryptodira
Superfamily:	Testudinoidea
Family:	Emydidae
Genus:	Emys
Species:	E. trinacris
Binomial name
Emys trinacris Fritz, Fattizzo, Guicking, Tripepi, Pennisi, Lenk, Joger & Wink, 2005[2]
The Sicilian pond turtle is only found in Sicily.

Etymology

The specific name, trinacris, is from the Greek word Trinacria, meaning "three-pointed", the earliest known name for the island of Sicily.^[3]

Description

E. trinacris is a small turtle. Maximum straight carapace length is 14.5 cm (5.7 in). The features of the turtle can vary depending on its location. This is because of a disruption in the gene flow caused by human activities like industrialization. Since there are obstacles in the way like roads and buildings, migrating to different groups is more difficult for the turtles. E. trinacris differs from E. orbicularis by its distinct mitochondrial DNA.^[3]

Habitat

The preferred habitat of E. trinacris is freshwater in ponds, lakes, rivers, and swamps.^[3]