Albino Indian Flapshell Turtle:
A rare species of Albino Indian Flapshell turtle was recently sighted by Mountaineers in Sirnapalli forest in Telangana’s Nizamabad.
- The Indian flapshell turtle is commonly found in South Asian countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
- The rare yellow color of the turtle may be due to the lack of a pigment called tyrosine present in high amounts in reptiles.
- A genetic mutation or possible congenital disorder is likely responsible for the lack of tyrosine.
- Indian flapshell turtles are typically are only 9 to 14 inches (22 centimeters to 35 centimeters) long, and like to eat frogs, snails and aquatic vegetation.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
- CITES: Appendix II.
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I.
