UPSC Articles
Albino Indian Flapshell Turtle
Part of: Prelims and GS-III – Environment
Context In the Sirnapalli forest of Telangana, an international forest forensic investigator had a chance encounter with the rarely found species of Albino Indian Flapshell turtle.
About Albino Indian Flapshell Turtle
- It is a freshwater species of turtle found in South Asia. It is widespread Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
- The “flap-shelled” name stems from the presence of femoral flaps.
- These flaps of skin cover the limbs when they retract into the shell.
- Its IUCN status is Vulnerable.
- While typical Indian flapshell turtles are dark green and brown, the example found recently has a decidedly more vibrant appearance.
- The Indian flapshell turtle’s albino appearance is due to genetics. It is a congenital disorder and it is characterised by complete or partial absence of tyrosine pigment.
