India’s First Satellite-Tagged Ganges Soft-Shell Turtle Released in Kaziranga

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where was India’s first satellite-tagged Ganges soft-shell turtle released?
A:  It was released in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in the state of Assam.

Q2: What is the scientific name of the Ganges soft-shell turtle?
A:  Its scientific name is  Nilssonia gangetica .

Q3: What is the conservation status of this turtle on the IUCN Red List?
A:  It is listed as  Endangered .

Q4: Under which Schedule of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, is this turtle protected in India?
A:  It is protected under  Schedule I , which provides the highest level of legal protection.

Q5: Why do these turtles have a tube-like snout?
A:  The tube-like snout acts as a snorkel, allowing the turtle to breathe by extending just its nose above the water’s surface while the rest of its body remains hidden and safe under the sand or mud.