Graptemys pulchra Baur 1893: Alabama Map Turtle

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Edited by: A. G. J. RhodinP. C. H. PritchardP. P. van DijkRaymond A. SaumureK.A. BuhlmannJ. B. Iverson, and R.A. Mittermeier

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Abstract

The Alabama Map Turtle, Graptemys pulchra (Family Emydidae), is a moderately large riverine species endemic to the Mobile Bay drainage system of Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. Sexual size dimorphism is pronounced, with adult females (carapace length [CL] to 273 mm) attaining more than twice the size of adult males (CL to 117 mm). The species is an inhabitant of relatively large, swift creeks and rivers, often with wide sandbars. Stream sections open to the sun and with abundant basking sites in the form of logs and brush are preferred. Six to seven clutches of 4–7 eggs are laid each year on river sandbars. Although the species is locally abundant, populations are threatened by habitat destruction, declines in their prey base, commercial collection, and vandalism. It is listed as a Species of Special Concern in Alabama.

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Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Graptemys pulchra Baur 1893: Alabama Map Turtle
DOI 10.3854/crm.5.072.pulchra.v1.2014
Year Published 2014
Language English
Publisher Chelonian Research Foundation
Contributing office(s) Southwest Biological Science Center
Description 6 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Other Government Series
Larger Work Title Conservation biology of freshwater turtles and tortoises: a compilation project of the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group
First page 072.1
Last page 072.6
Country United States
State Alabama;Georgia;Mississippi
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