How difficult is it to keep Spiny Softshell Turtle?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the lifespan of Spiny Softshell Turtle?

The average lifespan of Spiny Softshell Turtle is Large females may live up to 50 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Spiny Softshell Turtle get?

Spiny Softshell Turtle typically reaches Carapace up to 54cm; males 13-24cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Spiny Softshell Turtle?

Spiny Softshell Turtle feeds on: Prepared pellets, small fish, shrimp, earthworms and aquatic insects. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Spiny Softshell Turtle?

The price of Spiny Softshell Turtle varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Spiny Softshell Turtle

Intermediate

Apalone spinifera

Named for the row of spiny tubercles along the front edge of the carapace. One of the largest softshells in North America, with a carapace to 54 cm. Seven subspecies are recognised, differing in carapace markings and in how strongly the tubercles develop.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

25〜32℃

Lifespan

Large females may live up to 50 years

Size

Carapace up to 54cm; males 13-24cm

Humidity

40〜70%

Diet

Prepared pellets, small fish, shrimp, earthworms and aquatic insects

About

Apalone spinifera is the type species of the North American softshell genus Apalone and is widely distributed across the continent. Small conical tubercles cover the carapace and become spiny along the front edge, giving the turtle its English and Japanese names. It is large, with a carapace to 54 cm, while males stop at 13-24 cm, so the sexes differ greatly. The nostrils are bean-shaped and open forwards, with a projection on the nasal septum. Seven subspecies are recognised and vary considerably: the eastern spiny softshell has tubercles across the whole carapace and clear markings on the limbs, while the Cuatro Cienegas subspecies reaches only 25 cm and is uniformly dark. It favours flowing rivers with sandbars, burying itself in sand and gravel to ambush passing fish. Females dig nests in sand near the water and lay several clutches each season.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Spiny Softshell Turtle

The Spiny Softshell Turtle lives Large females may live up to 50 years.

Size of the Spiny Softshell Turtle

The Spiny Softshell Turtle grows to Carapace up to 54cm; males 13-24cm.

Basic Info

Origin

The United States and northern Mexico, including the Mississippi and Rio Grande drainages, in rivers of moderate current with extensive sandbars

Lifespan

Large females may live up to 50 years

Size

Carapace up to 54cm; males 13-24cm

Care Specifications

Semi-aggressiveSolitaryBreeding: Moderate

Sources: Reptiles Magazine: American Softshell Turtles / Wikipedia (Japanese): Spiny softshell turtle / Wikipedia (English): Spiny softshell turtle / Reptile Database / AnAge: The Animal Ageing and Longevity Database

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Apalone spinifera (Lesueur, 1827)

Synonyms: Trionyx spiniferus Lesueur, 1827, Amyda spinifera (Stejneger, 1944), Apalone spinifera (Meylan, 1987)

Authority databases: Reptile Database

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

CITES Appendix IIIUCN LC · Least Concern

Softshell turtles, Apalone spp., were listed in CITES Appendix II, effective February 23, 2023. Because of Appendix II status, no individual registration certificate under the international rare and endangered species regulation is required. However, the subspecies Apalone spinifera atra was listed in Appendix I effective July 1, 1975, and this subspecies qualifies as an internationally rare and endangered species, requiring an individual registration certificate for transfer or similar transactions. It is not listed as a special animal under the Enforcement Ordinance of the Animal Welfare and Management Act, nor as a specified invasive species.

Sources: CITES Appendices / Ministry of the Environment: list of invasive alien species / Order for Enforcement of the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals (designated dangerous animals)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.