Water

The Arakan forest turtle, or Heosemys depressa, lives mostly on land but relies on water for its existence. Despite its land-based lifestyle, this species is semi-aquatic and needs water for a variety of physiological processes, including hydration and thermoregulation.

Streams, rivers, and other freshwater sources are common places to find Arakan forest turtles in their native subtropical and tropical wet forests of western Myanmar. The turtle is able to keep its body temperature stable and hydration levels optimal because to the water bodies that it may sip from and bathe in.

Water also helps the Arakan forest turtle with a lot of things it does. Its possible uses include swimming, bathing, and hunting for aquatic animals including frogs, invertebrates, and fish in freshwater environments. This species relies on sources of water for both reproduction and nesting; in particular, the females will search for a spot with well-drained soil close to water in order to deposit her eggs.

Arakan woodland turtles rely heavily on readily available freshwater during the dry season, when water levels tend to drop or become sparse. In order to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration in the hot and dry environment, it could seek for small pools, seeps, or other sources of standing water.

Arakan forest turtles and other animals that rely on watery ecosystems must have these habitats protected if they are to survive. The turtle and other aquatic animals may find less appropriate habitats as a result of human activities like water extraction, pollution, and deforestation, which may degrade and divide freshwater ecosystems.

Preserving the richness of the environment and ensuring the continued health of the Arakan forest turtle population depends on actions taken to safeguard and renovate freshwater habitats within the turtle's range. Preserving habitat, monitoring water quality, and community-based efforts to manage water sustainably are all examples of conservation strategies.

Conservation activities can ensure the long-term survival of the Arakan forest turtle and contribute to the health and resilience of freshwater ecosystems in western Myanmar by making sure there are clean, accessible water sources.