Broad-Shelled Turtle
(Chelodina expansa)
-
Animal Type
Turtles
-
Exhibits
-
Range
Australia
Overview
The broad-shelled turtle can tuck its neck and head under the leading edge of its carapace, or upper shell. The largest of the snake-necks, these turtles are relatively flattened in appearance and have clawed, webbed feet.
Quick Facts
Learn more about the broad-shelled turtle! Did you know that this turtle's long neck can add 80% to its body length, aiding in its deception strategy for ambush hunting?
These turtles are found in permanent bodies of fresh water in the Murray-Darling River system of South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland; the coastal basins of southeastern Queensland; and on Fraser Island.
These turtles are omnivores and opportunistic, eating whatever they can catch. Their long, snake-like necks aid in ambushing prey, such as small fish and aquatic invertebrates.
This species is the largest of Australia’s freshwater turtles. Its carapace measures up to 20 inches in length, approximately the size of a trashcan lid.
The population is believed to be stable.
As adults, broad-shelled turtles have few predators. Juveniles are preyed upon by crocodiles, fish, foxes and birds.
Tours & Experiences Experience the Aquarium Like Never Before
Experience a 4D movie, explore behind the scenes, meet our experts and come face to face with amazing animals.
Meet the Expert Ken Howell
As the curator of the Upland Tropical Rain Forest, Amazon River Forest and Australia: Wild Extremes exhibits, Ken starts his day early, walking through each exhibit.
Explore Similar Animals
The National Aquarium—and the aquatic world—is full of amazing animals like this one.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
This species is Maryland's state reptile.
Giant South American River Turtle (Podocnemis expansa)
The giant South American river turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The green sea turtle gets its name not from the color of its shell but from the greenish shade of its fat.
Irwin's Turtle (Elseya irwini)
This species was first discovered in the early 1990s by Steve Irwin, the late Crocodile Hunter, and his father, Bob Irwin.
Kimberley Snake-Necked Turtle (Macrochelodina walloyarrina)
A distinguishing feature of adult Kimberley snake-necked turtles is their very long chin barbels.