Melanochelys

Melanochelys is a small genus of freshwater turtles in the family Geoemydidae, comprising two recognized species: the Black Marsh Turtle (Melanochelys trijuga) and the Short-necked Black Marsh Turtle (Melanochelys picta). The genus is distributed across South and Southeast Asia, with M. trijuga occurring from the Indian subcontinent through Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and into parts of Myanmar and northern Thailand. M. picta is found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and the surrounding islands.

These turtles inhabit slow‐moving rivers, streams, marshes, and paddy fields, favouring shallow waters with abundant vegetation. They are primarily aquatic but occasionally venture onto land, especially during nesting periods. Individuals exhibit a relatively small carapace, typically measuring 15–20 centimeters in length, with a dark, often speckled, greenish‑brown shell that provides camouflage in their murky environments.

The diet of Melanochelys species is varied, consisting of aquatic plants, algae, and a range of invertebrates, such as insects, worms, and crustaceans. In some regions, they also consume small fish and amphibian larvae. Feeding behaviour involves soft‑tipped jaws designed for cropping vegetation and grasping soft prey.

Reproduction occurs during the monsoon season. Females lay clutches of 8–12 eggs in burrows dug into moist, sandy bank soil. Nesting sites are selected to avoid flooding while maintaining sufficient moisture. Incubation lasts 40–60 days, after which hatchlings emerge fully aquatic.

Conservation status varies by species and locality. Both species are classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List; however, they face pressure from habitat loss, pollution, capture for the pet trade, and poaching for traditional medicine. Conservation measures include habitat protection, regulation of the turtle trade, and community awareness programmes. Continued monitoring of populations and enforcement of legal protections are crucial for maintaining viable populations in their native ranges.