Common Name:

 Stripe-necked Musk Turtle
Scientific Name:
Sternotherus minor peltifer
Etymology:
Genus:

Sternotherus is derived from the Greek word sternon which means "sternum" and therion which means "wild animal".
 Species:
minor is derived from the Latin word minor meaning "less".
 Subspecies:
peltifer is derived from the Latin word pelta meaning "a small shield" and fer meaning to "bear". This refers to the small scutes on the bridge.
Average Length:
3 - 4 in. (7.5 - 10 cm)
Virginia Record Length: 
 4.5 in. (11.6 cm)
Record length:
4.6 in. (11.7 cm)

 

Virginia Fish and Wildlife Information Service: Species Booklet

Photos:

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