Species Spotlight! Flattened Musk Turtle!

Common name: Flattened Musk Turtle

Scientific name: Sternotherus depressus

Countries of origin: United States of America

Habitat: Medium-sized, clean, clear-water streams and small rivers with abundant rock coverage and crevices

Threats: Habitat degradation; pollution; illegal collection for the pet trade

Wild Population: Decreasing; estimated population reduction greater than 90%; individuals increasingly difficult to find

Conservation: Captive breeding colonies; population monitoring; protected as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act; protected in Alabama; CITES Appendix II

Graphic: Jordan Gray

Turtle Photos: James Godwin, ©Joel Sartore/Photo Ark

**Turtle Survival Alliance strives to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please contact Jordan Gray at jgray@turtlesurvival.org**