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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's a popular and nutritious seafood dish that is both delicious and highly valued for its health benefits. Whether steamed, stewed, boiled, or fried, the soft-shelled turtle retains its rich flavor and nutritional value. In addition to being a culinary delight, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its therapeutic properties.
Soft-shelled turtles are amphibious creatures with a unique respiratory system. They breathe using their lungs but also have specialized structures that allow them to absorb oxygen from water through their skin and pharyngeal mucosa. Their large, sponge-like lungs help them stay submerged for extended periods. Even during hibernation, they can survive by taking in small amounts of dissolved oxygen through their mouths and nostrils while remaining mostly buried in the sediment at the bottom of the water.
In warm climates, soft-shelled turtles remain active throughout the year, but in colder regions, they enter a state of dormancy when temperatures drop. During winter, they hide deep in the mud, only keeping their snout and nostrils above the surface to breathe. When spring arrives, they become more active, often basking on the shore to warm up. During calm summer days, they float near the surface, breathing air through their tubular noses. If disturbed, they quickly dive back into the water.
These turtles are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide range of food such as small fish, shrimp, snails, clams, aquatic insects, and even plant matter like vegetables, fruits, and grass. They are also known to eat each other when food is scarce, so it's important to separate them by size when raising them in captivity. They have a strong appetite but can also go long periods without eating, relying on stored nutrients to sustain themselves. However, consistent feeding is essential to ensure healthy growth and longevity.
Soft-shelled turtles are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature depends on the environment. When temperatures fall below 15°C, they stop eating and begin hibernating. This natural cycle leads to slow growth in the wild, typically reaching around 100 grams per year. To speed up growth in farming environments, breeders often use heating systems to prevent hibernation and encourage continuous feeding.
Overall, the soft-shelled turtle is a fascinating creature with unique adaptations that allow it to thrive in both water and land. Its importance in both cuisine and traditional medicine makes it a valuable species worth understanding and protecting.
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