Common name : Saw-backs
Scientific name : Graptemys gibbonsi
Family : Emydidae
Native to : Southern United States
Interesting fact : Due to the sharp scales on the shell they are also called ‘Saw-backs’.
Conservation status : Endangered
Named after the river it is found in, the Pascagoula map turtle has an olive green domed shell with circular patterns of black and yellow stripes and pointed scales. Pale yellow and black stripes cover the head, neck, tail and limbs. They prefer fast-moving sandy rivers and rocky streams with gravel beds. Males eat insects while large-headed females can eat clams.
