Asiatic Soft-shell Turtle Amyda cartilaginea in Indonesia: A Review of its Natural History and Harvest

Abstract

This paper provides a review of the natural history and harvest levels of the Asiatic soft-shell turtle Amyda cartilaginea in Indonesia. A. cartilaginea is distributed widely in Indonesia, mostly in wetlands of the major islands. Surveys have found that A. cartilaginea reside in various freshwater habitats, even some near the vicinity of human settlements. There is no apparent breeding season, and females might lay more than one clutch during the year. It is estimated that females become reproductive around 3 years of age. Although A. cartilaginea is never seen in large numbers in one area, mostly due to its cryptic nature, it is generally considered abundant. Harvest of A. cartilaginea for export is regulated by the Government of Indonesia, as part of its inclusion in Appendix II of CITES. In practice, harvest is conducted all year, with no apparent preference for sex, but more research is needed regarding the species ecology and impact of harvest. The harvest of A. cartilaginea in Indonesia is a major concern for the conservation of the species. Annual monitoring of harvest levels using standardized methods should be carried out especially in locations subjected to high harvesting pressure, to assist management of the species.