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Platysternon megacephalum, the big-headed turtle, is easily recognizable from other turtle species due to its many unique morphological traits. The species gets its common name from the fact that its head is abnormally enormous compared to its body. One distinguishing feature that gives turtles their distinctive look is their enormous heads. Turtles are visually striking due to the stark contrast between their enormous heads and their tiny, compact bodies.
The big-headed turtle's carapace, or shell, is flatter and longer than average. Because its carapace is flatter in profile, the big-headed turtle is better able to swim through water than many other turtle species with dome-shaped shells. In order to blend in with the muddy bottoms of streams and ponds where it dwells, the shell usually has patterns that are yellowish or cream-colored and is dark brown or black in hue.
An other distinguishing feature of the big-headed turtle is its uniquely designed jaw. Because it is hinged, the turtle's top mouth may expand wide, producing a significant suction force. Because of this change, turtles are better able to swallow and eat aquatic invertebrates such as tiny fish, crabs, and insects. Turtles have a well-developed lower jaw that has sharp beak-like features that help them rip and eat food.
The big-headed turtle's short and stocky limbs are better adapted to propelling it through water than swift land travel. The five clawed fingers at the end of each leg provide stability and grip for walking or climbing on underwater surfaces. Although they spend most of their time in the water, big-headed turtles may sometimes cross land to sunbathe or choose a good spot to lay their eggs.
Small bone plates called osteoderms cover the big-headed turtle's skin and provide further protection from predators and environmental risks. A layer of hard, armored skin formed by these osteoderms serves to protect the turtle's body from harm. In addition, several variables including age, sex, and geographic location might affect the hue and intensity of the skin's patterns and marks.
The big-headed turtle is a sexually dimorphic species, meaning that the males look different from the females. The males usually have bigger heads and longer tails. During mating season, when males aggressively pursue females, this morphological difference is most noticeable. This may be associated with their reproductive biology and nesting habits, but female Big-headed turtles also have broader bodies and shorter claws than males.