SPECIES: Elseya irwini — Irwin's Turtle
CLASSIFICATION: Vulnerable
In the clear, fast-flowing rivers of northern Queensland, Irwin’s Turtle glides beneath the surface, a species so elusive it wasn’t formally identified until the 1990s. Named after Steve and Bob Irwin, who first recorded it, this freshwater turtle is distinguished by its striking pale head, smooth domed shell, and strong jaws suited for a diet of aquatic invertebrates, algae, and plant material.
One of its most fascinating adaptations is its ability to breathe through its cloaca, extracting oxygen from the water to remain submerged for extended periods – an advantage in its riverine habitat. This remarkable species is now facing serious threats. Habitat destruction and altered water flow from dams and agricultural runoff degrade the pristine rivers it depends on, low population numbers and a restricted range increase its vulnerability and climate change and sedimentation may further impact its fragile ecosystem.
Photo: Jeff Tan