Razorback Musk Turtle

Looks how to spot one

Shell and skin

The shell is brown with black markings at the edges of each scute, and it has a distinct, sharp keel running down the centre of the back, which gives the turtle its name. The shell is high-peaked and oval, and the skin is grey to light brown or pink with small dark spots. The head has a protruding tubular snout and a slightly hooked upper jaw.41

Personality what they are like

Razorback musk turtles are shy by nature and are not inclined to bite. They are more aquatic than mud turtles and are infrequent baskers. They can be kept in community tanks with other peaceful turtles, but caution is needed with their own kind or closely related species, as aggression can occur between males or towards unreceptive females.5

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These turtles are active and will use the space offered. They are cathemeral, meaning they may be active at various times of day and night. They are bottom walkers in the water and use crevices under submerged deadwood or rocks for hiding.32

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Care is straightforward but requires a clean environment. Strong filtration is advised because these turtles are messy feeders and water quality can suffer. Provide a basking area with a spotlight, and use river pebbles as substrate to give a sense of security. Regular water changes are essential.5

Home where they are happiest

A 30-gallon aquarium is sufficient for a single adult, with more space needed for additional turtles. They prefer deep water and a basking spot, such as a rock projecting from the water or floating plants for young specimens. Water temperature should be in the mid to high 70s Fahrenheit, air temperature 75-83°F, and basking temperature in the mid 80s to low 90s. They are native to slow-moving rivers, swamps and oxbows, so provide hiding spots with rocks and aquatic plants. They are not cold tolerant, so indoor heating is necessary in cooler climates. Check local laws, as they are listed under CITES Appendix II and EU Annex B.53

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In the wild, they eat aquatic invertebrates such as clams, crayfish, snails and insects, as well as fish, amphibians, carrion, seeds and aquatic plants. In captivity, they do well on high-quality turtle pellets, earthworms, crawdads and occasional feeder fish.45

Company who they like around

Razorback musk turtles are shy and prefer hiding spots. They can live with other peaceful turtles like painted turtles, sliders and cooters, provided size differences are not pronounced. However, caution is advised when keeping them with their own kind or closely related species, as aggression can occur. They are not inclined to bite and are generally not aggressive towards humans.5

The story where it all began

The razorback musk turtle has been kept in captivity for many years and is regularly captive bred. Its relatively small size, hardiness and ease of care make it a popular choice for turtle keepers, especially compared to the more common red-eared slider. It is the largest of the musk turtles and is known for its distinct keel. The species has been studied in the wild, with research on its reproduction and basking behaviour. It is not listed on the IUCN Red List, but it is included in CITES Appendix II, meaning international trade is regulated.413

Recognised by the official bits

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Recognized as Sternotherus carinatus, common name Razor-backed Musk Turtle.6