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Diversity and Distribution of Turtles in Central valley of Manipur, India

Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of Zoology, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781014, Assam, India
  • 2Department of Zoology, University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya, Baridua -793101, Meghalaya, India

Int. Res. J. Biological Sci., Volume 5, Issue (8), Pages 45-52, August,10 (2016)

Abstract

Turtles or Testudines are one of the most threatened groups of animals. The turtles in Manipur had received little attention in terms of scientific surveys and conservation initiatives at this time. Poor idea of species occurrence, local distribution, and threat assessment amidst the apparent threat to existence has created information gaps. During the present study 5 species (Cuora amboinensis, Cyclemys dentata, Melanochelys trijuga, Amyda cartilaginea and Nilssonia hurum) from 2 families (Geoemydidae and Trionychidae) were physically recorded from the central valley of Manipur. New localities along with their coordinates were presented. We also present a checklist containing 7 species based on cumulative records. The turtles are facing threat from habitat destruction and anthropogenic pressure. More survey to other areas coupled with conservation and management effort in behalf of this fauna is urgently needed.

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