Pehmeltseadmete

Pehmeltseadmete, also known as soft-shelled turtles, are a group of reptiles belonging to the order Testudines. They are characterized by their soft, leathery shells, which are not ossified like those of hard-shelled turtles. This group includes several families, such as the Trionychidae, which are commonly known as soft-shelled turtles, and the Kinosternidae, which are often referred to as mud turtles. Pehmeltseadmete are found in various habitats, including freshwater environments like rivers, lakes, and ponds, as well as in some terrestrial areas.

Soft-shelled turtles are known for their unique reproductive strategy. Instead of laying eggs, they give birth to live young. This is a characteristic feature that sets them apart from most other turtles. The young are typically born in the spring or early summer, depending on the species and the region. The mother provides care for her offspring, often carrying them in a pouch or on her back until they are independent.

These turtles play an important role in their ecosystems. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plants and animals, and their waste contributes to nutrient cycling in freshwater environments. However, many species of soft-shelled turtles are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and overharvesting. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique reptiles and their habitats.