The captive husbandry and reproduction of the pink-eared turtle (Emydura victoriae) at Perth Zoo
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2011 |
Authors: |
G. S. Gaikhorst, B. R. Clarke, M. McPharlin, B. Larkin, J. McLaughlin, J. Mayes |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
behavior, biology, development, diet, ecology, growth |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract In 1997, Perth Zoo acquired six pink-eared turtles (Emydura victoriae) from the wild for display in the reptile facility. There is very little documented information on pink-eared turtles in captivity. This article looks at the reproductive biology, ecology, behavior, diet, and captive husbandry of the species. Eight clutches of eggs were documented over a 2-year period with an average clutch size of 10 eggs. Egg size was recorded with three clutches incubated to hatching. Ten hatchlings were maintained for a growth and development study. Measurements of weight, carapace length, width, height, and plastron length were recorded weekly for about 12 months, and then monthly for approximately 2 years. The data were analyzed and showed positive growth curves in all animals. Sexual dimorphism was observed after 20 weeks and sexual maturity in males observed after 2 years. Zoo Biol 30:79–94, 2011. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.