Chrysemys picta

Chrysemys picta is a species of turtle commonly known as the painted turtle. It belongs to the family Emydidae, and is native to North America. The species is divided into four subspecies, each with distinct geographical distributions and characteristics.

Taxonomy

The Chrysemys picta species was first described by Charles Alexandre Lesueur in 1829. The species is divided into four subspecies: the eastern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta picta), the midland painted turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata), the southern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta dorsalis), and the western painted turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii).

Description

The painted turtle is named for its brightly colored shell and skin. The carapace is smooth and oval, with a color range from black to olive green. The plastron is typically yellow or red, with a unique pattern that distinguishes each subspecies.

Distribution and Habitat

Chrysemys picta is widely distributed across North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers.

Behavior and Ecology

Painted turtles are diurnal and are often seen basking on logs or rocks during the day. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants and small animals.

Conservation

The painted turtle is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss and pollution pose threats to some populations.

See Also

• Turtle
• Emydidae
• Reptiles of North America