Changzhou Ziying Metal Products Co., Ltd , https://www.ziyingmetal.com The soft-shelled turtle, scientifically known as *Pelodiscus sinensis*, is also commonly referred to as water fish, group fish, or even squid in some regions. It is a popular and nutritious seafood dish, prized for its rich flavor and high nutritional value. Whether steamed, stewed, boiled, or fried, it offers a unique taste that appeals to many. In addition to being a delicacy, the soft-shelled turtle has significant medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Soft-shelled turtles are amphibious creatures with a unique respiratory system. Unlike most aquatic animals, they breathe through their lungs, but they also have specialized structures that allow them to absorb oxygen from water. Their nostrils, trachea, bronchi, and large, spongy lungs work together to support both land and water life. Additionally, their pharyngeal mucosa contains capillaries that help exchange gases while submerged. As water flows over their mouth, they can perform gas exchange, which allows them to stay underwater for extended periods.
In warm water systems, soft-shelled turtles have a long growth period. In northern regions, during the cold season when the wind blows and vegetation dies back, they burrow into the sediment at the bottom of ponds or rivers and enter hibernation. During this time, they remain still, hiding their head and neck within their shell, only exposing their eyes and the tip of their nose to the surface to take in oxygen. When prey like fish or shrimp swim by, they quickly extend their necks to catch it.
During spring, summer, and early autumn, when the weather is warm and the water is clear, soft-shelled turtles often come to the shore to bask in the sun. On calm summer days, they frequently float near the surface, using their tubular nose to breathe air. If disturbed, they quickly dive back into the water. During rainy days with low atmospheric pressure, they may even rise to the surface and sometimes expose their entire body. In heavy rain or strong winds, it's not uncommon to see large groups of soft-shelled turtles floating on the water’s surface.
Their behavior can be summarized as "three shy and three bold." They are highly sensitive to environmental changes and will quickly retreat into the sediment if anything moves nearby. This makes it essential to keep their farming environment quiet and undisturbed. Frequent disturbances can stress the turtles, affecting their growth and breeding.
Soft-shelled turtles are omnivores, feeding mainly on small fish, shrimp, snails, clams, aquatic insects, and worms. They also consume plants, fruits, and grass. When food is scarce, they may even eat each other, so it's important to sort them by size when feeding. Mixing different sizes in the same tank can lead to aggression and cannibalism, causing losses. They have a strong appetite but can survive without food for long periods, relying on stored nutrients. However, to ensure healthy growth and longevity, they must be provided with adequate nutrition regularly.
As ectothermic animals, soft-shelled turtles are highly sensitive to temperature changes. When the temperature drops below 15°C, they stop eating and begin hibernating in the sediment. This usually occurs from October to April, lasting about six months. In natural conditions, their growth is slow, typically reaching around 100 grams per year. To speed up growth, farmers often use heating methods to prevent hibernation and promote faster development.