Mata Mata Turtle

Original price was: $300.99.Current price is: $274.99.

Characteristics of the Mata Mata Turtle

The Mata Mata Turtle (Chelus fimbriata) is an extraordinary freshwater species renowned for its prehistoric appearance and unique behaviors. Native to the slow-moving rivers, streams, and swamps of South America, this turtle is a favorite among reptile enthusiasts seeking a fascinating and unusual pet.

Physical Characteristics

  1. Shell:
    • Flattened, ridged, and rough-textured, resembling tree bark or a piece of driftwood. This natural camouflage helps it blend seamlessly into its aquatic environment.
    • Typically brown to black in color.
  2. Head and Neck:
    • Leaf-shaped head with a triangular shape, pointed snout, and numerous skin flaps that mimic leaves or debris.
    • Extremely long neck, nearly as long as its body, allowing it to strike quickly at prey.
  3. Size:
    • Adult Mata Mata Turtles can grow up to 18 inches in shell length.
    • They weigh between 15–30 pounds when fully grown.
  4. Eyes and Mouth:
    • Small eyes positioned near the top of their head, perfect for remaining submerged while observing their surroundings.
    • Large mouth adapted for a “vacuum feeding” mechanism, drawing in water and prey with incredible speed.

Behavioral Traits

  1. Ambush Predator:
    • Mata Matas are masters of stealth, remaining motionless while waiting for unsuspecting prey to approach.
  2. Aquatic Lifestyle:
    • While they rarely leave the water, they can occasionally be seen basking on submerged logs.
  3. Docile Nature:
    • They are not aggressive and are generally calm, making them a good pet for experienced keepers.

Habitat Preferences

  1. Natural Environment:
    • Found in slow-moving, murky waters with soft substrates and ample vegetation.
  2. Aquarium Needs:
    • A spacious, shallow aquatic setup with clean, well-filtered water and natural decor like driftwood and aquatic plants.

Dietary Habits

  1. Carnivorous:
    • Mata Matas primarily feed on live prey, including small fish, amphibians, shrimp, and aquatic insects.
  2. Feeding Style:
    • Known for their “vacuum feeding” method, they suck in water and prey in one swift motion.

Lifespan

With proper care, a Mata Mata Turtle can live up to 40 years or more, making it a long-term and rewarding companion.

Unique Traits

  1. Camouflage Master:
    • Its shell and head design make it virtually indistinguishable from its surroundings.
  2. Fossil-like Appearance:
    • Often described as a living fossil due to its primitive features and prehistoric look.
  3. Low Activity Level:
    • Mata Matas are relatively inactive and prefer to stay submerged, blending into their environment.

The Mata Mata Turtle is a marvel of evolution, offering reptile enthusiasts an incredible opportunity to observe a creature that looks like it stepped straight out of the age of dinosaurs.

WE HAVE MATA MATA TURTLES FOR SALE. HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Naturally Occurring Out Of South America In The Amazon And Orinoco Basins
  • Adults Can Reach Up To A Whopping 18 Inches And Weigh As Much As 33lbs
  • With Proper Care These Turtles Can Live 40 – 75 Years In Captivity
  • There Necks Are Super Long Allowing It To Snatch Prey From A Far Distance
  • Chelus fimbriata
  • Field Collected
  • Approximately 6 – 8 Inches In Shell Length
  • One Of Natures Most Interesting Animals With Its Leaf Shaped Head
  • High Ridges On Shell And Beautiful Autumn Colors On These Animals
  • Feeding On Silverside Fish, Crickets And Worms