The Danube Delta Water Turtle, scientifically known as Emys orbicularis, is one of the most fascinating and iconic aquatic species in this unique European region.
Although it may seem discreet and shy, this species plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of the delta ecosystem. This article will provide you with essential information about this species, from its characteristics to habitat, diet, and interesting facts.
Did You Know?
- The water turtle is the only native aquatic turtle species in Romania.
- The Danube Delta hosts one of the largest populations of Emys orbicularis in Europe.
- It can live up to 60 years in the wild if protected from predators and pollution.
What Does the Water Turtle Look Like and What Does It Do?
Emys orbicularis has characteristic features:
- Rounded and domed carapace, dark-colored with yellow or green spots.
- Size: the carapace length can vary between 12 and 38 centimeters.
- Weight: between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms.
- Limbs adapted for swimming, with webbed toes.
- Small head with shiny black eyes.
Reproduction
- The breeding season occurs in spring, between April and June.
- The female lays between 5 and 15 eggs in a hole dug in the sand, away from water.
- Incubation lasts between 60 and 90 days, and the hatchlings emerge in August-September.
- The survival of hatchlings is influenced by temperature, humidity, and predator presence.
Diet
The water turtle is an opportunistic carnivore and consumes:
- Small fish
- Amphibians
- Aquatic insects and larvae
- Mollusks
- Occasionally, plant matter or detritus
Did You Know? The diet varies depending on the season and resource availability. During colder periods, the turtle can hibernate and significantly reduce its metabolism.
Habitat
- The Danube Delta provides an ideal habitat for this species, thanks to its calm waters, marshes, and abundant vegetation.
- It prefers freshwater areas such as lakes, canals, and ponds with sandy shores.
- It is sensitive to pollution and climate changes.
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Informative Table about the Water Turtle
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Emys orbicularis |
| Lifespan | Up to 60 years in the wild |
| Carapace Length | Between 12 and 38 cm |
| Weight | Between 500 g and 1.5 kg |
| Breeding Season | April – June |
| Diet Type | Carnivorous: small fish, insects, amphibians |
| Preferred Habitat | Lakes, canals, ponds with rich vegetation |
| Areas in the Danube Delta | Calm canals, sandy shores |
Interesting Facts about Emys orbicularis
- Emys orbicularis can stay submerged for up to 30 minutes without surfacing.
- It can fully retract its head and limbs into its shell for protection.
- It is a species protected by national and European legislation, considered an indicator of ecosystem health.
- In the past, it was hunted for consumption, but this practice is now prohibited.
- During winter, it shelters in mud or under aquatic plant roots, where it hibernates.
Where Can You Observe the Water Turtle in the Danube Delta?
- In calm canal areas with abundant vegetation.
- On sandy shores where it lays its eggs.
- Near reed beds, where it finds shelter and food.
- It is most active during the warm months, between May and September.
Why is Conservation Important?
- Emys orbicularis contributes to maintaining ecological balance by controlling populations of insects and small fish.
- Protecting this species means safeguarding the entire aquatic habitat of the Danube Delta.
- Activities such as water pollution, habitat destruction, and the introduction of invasive species threaten the existence of the water turtle.
To support conservation, it is essential to respect protection rules and support biodiversity conservation initiatives.
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