The largest softshell turtle is the Yangtze giant softshell turtle. The R. swinhoei is known as the largest freshwater turtle species in the world. African Sideneck Turtle. There are 10 species of turtles in Massachusetts. Common Pond Species. They range from the tiny bog turtle, which measures 3-4” long, to the snapping turtle, which can reach up to 19” long. Unfortunately, 58% of all freshwater turtle and tortoise species – including at least 40% of the U.S. species – are threatened with extinction. Sea Turtle Species: Saving sea turtles through Education, advocacy, recycling, beach clean ups, protection of nests and rescuing injured turtles. It grows to 2.5 feet and can weigh as much as 220 lbs. The Yangtze giant softshell turtle is a critically endangered species. History Talk (0) Share. As such the species are on the verge of extinction. That said, you may find it wading in its water dish every once in a while! Some of theses species are readily available in the pet trade market while others are not consider ideal species for the average pond owner. The follow is a list of the common pond turtles you are likely to find in the United States. Learn about all kinds of turtle and tortoise species in this Reptiles Magazine directory Unlike other species on this list, the eastern box turtle is not aquatic. View source. 1 Collection for the pet trade is a major threat to tortoises and freshwater turtles worldwide. Contents. All sea turtles are listed as an endangered species in the US under the Federal Endangered Species Act. It is a softshell turtle and as such has a leathery carapace. REMAINING (number with state) Bridge inframarginal scute number 4 (2) 3 (1) Bridge inguinal scutes developed Absent (1) Poorly (1) Well (1) Bridge width 1/2 or more of abdominal shield (1) The website goes on to list four species of wild turtles that are okay to keep as pets. Established in 1964, the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has evolved to become the world’s most comprehensive information source on the global conservation status of animal, fungi and plant species. Photo Credit: Mickey Foster, Big Pine Key, Fl. In addition, five sea turtles have also been found offshore, or stranded on beaches. Only about four living individuals of the species are known to exist. It prefers to live in a land-based habitat with precise temperatures, humidity levels, and lighting. The smallest species of turtle is the speckled Cape tortoise that grows to 3.1 inches and weighs 5 ounces. The alligator snapping turtle is the largest freshwater turtle. It grows to about 3.6 feet and weighs about 309 pounds. Your pet turtle must belong to one of the following species: Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus) Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata) Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica) List of Species from Turtle's Tale.