Pig-Nosed Turtle

Pig-Nosed Turtle key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

Recorded at over 17 years in captivity

Size

Carapace to 56.3cm, with reports of 80cm, and up to 22.5kg

Diet

Fruit, especially figs, aquatic plants, algae, insects, crustaceans, fish and prepared pellets

Temperature & Humidity

It lives in tropical rivers, so avoid cool water and keep heating stable so that the temperature does not swing.

Enclosure

It is fully aquatic, an extremely strong swimmer, and grows past 56 cm, so it needs a very large tank or pond. Where that space cannot be provided at home, the species is unsuitable. Powerful filtration and open swimming space come first.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous with a plant bias: build the diet on fruit, aquatic plants and algae with insects, crustaceans and fish alongside. Wild animals favour figs.

Temperament

It tolerates company poorly and animals kept together bite one another. It is notably territorial and aggressive in captivity, so house it singly as a rule.

Notes

Listed on CITES Appendix II with effect from 12 January 2005; as an Appendix II species it needs no individual registration certificate in Japan, and it is neither a designated dangerous animal nor an invasive alien species there. Australia and Papua New Guinea ban domestic trade and export, and most animals in trade are hatchlings incubated from wild-collected eggs.

About Pig-Nosed Turtle

Meet the pig-nosed turtle, a fully aquatic species with sea turtle-like flippers and a distinctive pig-like snout. Learn about its advanced care needs and large adult size.

7 things to know before welcoming a Pig-Nosed Turtle

1. 1Requires a Large Aquatic Setup

   This species can reach a shell length of 56.3 cm and a weight of 22.5 kg, with some reports of individuals reaching 80 cm. You'll need to plan for a large aquarium or outdoor pond with ample water volume from the start.

2. 2Fully Aquatic, Rarely Leaves Water

   Aside from egg-laying, this species spends its entire life in the water. Prioritize creating an aquatic environment that supports swimming and diving over providing extensive basking or land areas.

3. 3Best Suited to Experienced Keepers

   Water quality management and the need for a spacious setup make this a demanding species, generally recommended for experienced keepers. It's best considered as a next step for those who already have turtle-keeping experience.

4. 4Plan for a Long Lifespan

   Individuals have been recorded living over 17 years in captivity, so you'll need to commit to long-term, responsible care. Consider potential future lifestyle changes before bringing one home.

5. 5Flipper-Like Limbs and Unique Swimming

   Its front limbs have evolved into sea turtle-like flippers, giving it a smooth, distinctive swimming style unlike other turtles. Providing ample swimming space lets you fully appreciate this unique movement.

6. 6Strong Filtration Is Essential

   Due to its large size, it produces significant waste, so powerful filtration matched to a large setup is essential. Regular water quality checks are important, as poor water conditions can quickly lead to health issues.

7. 7The Only Living Species in Its Family

   As the sole surviving species in the family Carettochelyidae, it has followed an evolutionary path unlike any other turtle. This rarity and unique biology are part of what makes it so appealing.

Frequently asked questions about Pig-Nosed Turtle

Q.Can beginners keep a pig-nosed turtle?

A.The pig-nosed turtle is considered a species best suited to experienced keepers. Given its large adult size and demanding water quality needs, it's recommended to gain turtle-keeping experience first.

Q.How large does a pig-nosed turtle grow?

A.Individuals have reached a shell length of 56.3 cm and a weight of 22.5 kg, with some reports of specimens reaching 80 cm. You'll need to plan enclosure space with this growth in mind.

Q.Does it need a basking or land area?

A.This is a fully aquatic species that only leaves the water to lay eggs. Rather than a large land area, a spacious aquatic environment with ample water volume and swimming room is what matters most.

Q.How long do pig-nosed turtles live?

A.Individuals have been recorded living over 17 years in captivity. Before bringing one home, carefully consider whether you can provide care over the long term.

Q.Is the pig-nosed turtle subject to any trade regulations?

A.Pig-Nosed Turtle is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

Useful tools for Pig-Nosed Turtle care

Learn more about Pig-Nosed Turtle in the encyclopedia

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