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Simple Summary: In this study, we used both morphology and molecular genetic tools, namely mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region and nuclear DNA (nDNA) exon involving recombination activating gene 2 (RAG2), to confirm the species of two sea turtles found in the Thai Andaman Sea that possessed unusual lateral scute patterns from the original species. Both turtles were identified as the olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea). This finding has raised awareness about the need for exploration of rare phenotypes of carapace scute patterns in the olive ridley turtle populations that reside in Thai Seas and the Indo-Pacific region. Two stranded Lepidochelys-like sea turtles were rescued from the Thai Andaman Sea coastline by veterinarians of the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC), one in May of 2019 and another in July of 2021. They were first identified as olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea), as the external appearance of both turtles was closer to that species than the other four species found in the Thai Andaman Sea. In fact, when carefully examined, an unusual pattern of the lateral scutes on each turtle was observed, specifically symmetric 5/5 and asymmetric 5/6, both of which are considered rare for L. olivacea and had never been reported in the Thai Andaman Sea. In contrast, this characteristic was more common for the closely related species, Kemp's ridley (L. kempii), although this species is not distributed in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Thus, we further investigated their genetic information to confirm species identification using two molecular markers, namely the mtDNA control region and nDNA RAG2. The results from the mtDNA control region sequences using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) indicated that both individuals exhibited a higher percent identity with L. olivacea (99.81–100.00%) rather than L. kempii (94.29–95.41%) or any other species. A phylogenetic tree confirmed that these two turtles belonged to the L. olivacea clade. Moreover, the results of RAG2 also supported the mtDNA result, as both individuals shared the same RAG2 haplotype with L. olivacea. Thus, we have concluded that the two turtles with unusual lateral scute patterns exhibited genetic consistency with their original species, L. olivacea, which has brought attention to the importance of exploring rare phenotypes in sea turtle populations residing in Thai Seas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract It has been widely demonstrated that air and sand temperatures influence the anatomy of sea turtle hatchlings. We examined the impact of precipitation during the nesting season on the hatchling body size of loggerhead and green turtles from 37 beaches worldwide. Longitudinal data collected between 2012 and 2018 from Florida (US) and from a sample on Bõa Vista Island (Cabo Verde) carried out in 2019 showed that loggerhead body size at hatching was negatively correlated with precipitation, while precipitation was not correlated with hatchling body size in green turtles. A meta-analysis revealed that precipitation is positively correlated with hatchling mass in loggerhead turtles, while it is positively correlated with straight carapace length and width in green turtle hatchlings. The strongest influence of precipitation was found in the middle of the incubation period of loggerhead turtles in Cabo Verde, and we posit that this is due to an increase in the uptake of water for embryonic growth. These findings highlight the great importance of understanding the correlated effects of regional environmental variables, such as precipitation, on the development of sea turtle hatchlings and will have an impact on the evaluation of ongoing conservation and climate change discussions.

We investigated post-settlement growth patterns and sexual dimorphism in the carapace, pelon, and cheliped dimensions of the varunid crab Gaetice depressus (De Haan, 1833). We reared crabs in the laboratory from hatching through megalopae to the first to tenth instars, and measurements were made of exuviae or specimens of crabs that successively molted. The males were larger than the females in all instars. The molt increments of carapace width (CW) and carapace length (CL) did not differ between the sexes; the former decreased with growth, especially up to ~3–4 mm, whereas the latter did not change with growth. This may be due to the rapid growth in CW compared to CL during early ontogeny. The proportion of CW to CL was larger in the females than in the males, and the rate of increase in pleon width accelerated greatly after growth to ~4 mm CW. Cheliped dimensions were larger in males than in females, probably as a consequence of sexual selection. Cheliped propodus length and width increased with growth in both sexes, but the rates of increase tended to decelerate after ~7 mm CW in females. This indicates that females may allocate more energy to pleon growth while limiting cheliped growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two stranded Lepidochelys-like sea turtles were rescued from the Thai Andaman Sea coastline by veterinarians of the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC), one in May of 2019 and another in July of 2021. They were first identified as olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea), as the external appearance of both turtles was closer to that species than the other four species found in the Thai Andaman Sea. In fact, when carefully examined, an unusual pattern of the lateral scutes on each turtle was observed, specifically symmetric 5/5 and asymmetric 5/6, both of which are considered rare for L. olivacea and had never been reported in the Thai Andaman Sea. In contrast, this characteristic was more common for the closely related species, Kemp’s ridley (L. kempii), although this species is not distributed in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Thus, we further investigated their genetic information to confirm species identification using two molecular markers, namely the mtDNA control region and nDNA RAG2. The results from the mtDNA control region sequences using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) indicated that both individuals exhibited a higher percent identity with L. olivacea (99.81–100.00%) rather than L. kempii (94.29–95.41%) or any other species. A phylogenetic tree confirmed that these two turtles belonged to the L. olivacea clade. Moreover, the results of RAG2 also supported the mtDNA result, as both individuals shared the same RAG2 haplotype with L. olivacea. Thus, we have concluded that the two turtles with unusual lateral scute patterns exhibited genetic consistency with their original species, L. olivacea, which has brought attention to the importance of exploring rare phenotypes in sea turtle populations residing in Thai Seas.

Our study was focused on the external features differentiation of two adult species of turtles, including a land tortoise (Testudo graeca graeca) and a freshwater turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans), by gross morphological description of head, carapace, plastron, and tail. Generally, turtles show gross morphological differences according to the ecology and the environment. The carapace and legs are the fascinating noticeable parts showing significant differences between tortoise and turtle as T. graeca graeca shows a small carapace length with noticeable convexity. In contrast, the freshwater turtle has a flattened broad carapace adapted to swimming. At the same time, the legs of T. graeca show multiple keratinized spurs with rigid claws, but T. scripta has legs covered with soft, moist skin and thin claws. The plastron is relatively the same in both species, while the head is unique with a large size and red flap in T. scripta. We conclude that the flat body and legs with broad head are a modification for swimming, while the rigid claws with keratinized outer leg skin are signs of land walking adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adult male free-living yellow armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus) was found by hunters and referred for clinical evaluation because of a tumour-like lesion on the carapace. The animal was lethargic and weak with severe dehydration, enophthalmos and cachexia, and was euthanized because of its very poor clinical condition. Necropsy revealed a whitish, exophytic, irregular and moist mass (7 × 6.5 × 1.5 cm) in the caudal third of the carapace. On cut section, the mass was hard, compact, irregular and whitish. Histopathology revealed a densely cellular, expansive, poorly delimited neoplasm composed of malignant mesenchymal cells arranged in islands and cords, interspersed by numerous areas of irregularly mineralized osteoid matrix. Neoplastic cells were intensely immunolabelled for vimentin. The diagnosis of a high-grade osteosarcoma of osteoblastic subtype was based on the clinical, gross, histopathological and immunohistochemical findings. This first report of an osteosarcoma in an armadillo expands the list of armadillo diseases and will assist the management of these animals by veterinarians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Orchid seeds are 'dust-like.' The seed coat is usually thin, with only one to a few cell layers. It originates from the integuments formed during ovule development. In orchids, the outer integument is primarily responsible for forming a mature seed coat. The inner integument usually fails to develop after fertilization, becomes compressed, and collapses over the expanding embryo. Hence, the seed coat is formed from the funiculus, chalaza, and outer integumentary cells. The outermost layer of the seed coat, the testa, is lignified, usually at the radial and inner tangential walls. The subepidermal thin-walled layer(s), the tegmen, subsequently cold, resulting in seeds having only a single layer of seed coat cells. In some species, cells of the inner integument remain alive with the ability to synthesize and accumulate lipidic and or phenolic compounds in their walls covering the embryo. This cover is called the 'carapace,' a protective shield contributing to the embryo's added protection. A developmental and functional perspective of the integuments and seed coat during seed development and germination is presented in this review.

Orchid seeds are 'dust-like.' The seed coat is usually thin, with only one to a few cell layers. It originates from the integuments formed during ovule development. In orchids, the outer integument is primarily responsible for forming a mature seed coat. The inner integument usually fails to develop after fertilization, becomes compressed, and collapses over the expanding embryo. Hence, the seed coat is formed from the funiculus, chalaza, and outer integumentary cells. The outermost layer of the seed coat, the testa, is lignified, usually at the radial and inner tangential walls. The subepidermal thin-walled layer(s), the tegmen, subsequently cold, resulting in seeds having only a single layer of seed coat cells. In some species, cells of the inner integument remain alive with the ability to synthesize and accumulate lipidic and or phenolic compounds in their walls covering the embryo. This cover is called the 'carapace,' a protective shield contributing to the embryo's added protection. A developmental and functional perspective of the integuments and seed coat during seed development and germination is presented in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nouveau Praticien Vétérinaire Canine & Féline is the property of EDP Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Armadillos are bitten by several species of flea. Females of the genus Tunga penetrate the epidermis and when in place are fertilised by males, after which the abdomen swells enormously to form a 'neosome'. Within the penetrans group, T. perforans, makes lesions that perforate the osteoderms within the integument to form ~3 mm diameter cavities occupied by a discoid neosome. We examined these lesions in carapace material from animals which had died in the wild to see whether we could recruit evidence as to how they may be generated, either by the insect or by the host. We studied one species without such lesions, the nine‐banded armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus, and two species with, the greater hairy armadillo Chaetophractus villosus and the southern three‐banded armadillo Tolypeutes matacus, both showing the characteristic 'flea bite' holes in the external surfaces of the osteoderms. Samples were studied by three‐dimensional backscattered electron mode scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray microtomography. Both methods showed resorption pit complexes in the external surfaces of the osteoderms characteristic of those made by osteoclasts in active bone resorption. Lesions involved both the syndesmoses (sutures) between adjacent bones and the central regions of the osteoderms. Many lesions showed extensive repair by infilling with new bone. We conclude that the T. perforans neosome creates a local host response which causes bone resorption, creating the space in which it can grow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scutes present very complex morphologies with different growth rates at different areas of the carapace that can change the accumulation process of essential and non-essential metals. To infer the effects of morphology and growth on Hg concentrations in scutes, we mapped them in the carapace of one individual of four species of sea turtles sampled along the Brazilian coast. The results showed that Hg concentrations were higher in the vertebral scutes of Chelonia mydas and Eretmochelys imbricata suggesting variation in growth rates of different carapace areas since the vertebral area is the first to develop prior to costal areas. Caretta caretta and Lepidochelys olivacea did not show differences between carapace areas. The preliminary data from this pilot study indicate that vertebral scutes may be suitable for monitoring Hg in C. mydas and E. imbricata, since they reflect longer exposure period. A species-to-species comparison of Hg concentrations is not possible due to the small number of sampled individuals, nevertheless, E. imbricata showed remarkably lower Hg concentrations compared to the other three species. Further studies are required for all four species, with a larger number of individuals, preferentially of varying life stages, due to the unknown effects of different diets, Hg exposure, and migration histories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to determine the technological conditions for decalcification of the carapace from the Chinese soft-shelled turtle(Pelodiscus sinensis), the decalcification conditions were optimized under ultrasonic assisted treatment with hydrochloric acid as a decalcifying agent. The decalcification rate and collagen migration rate were employed as evaluation indicators to investigate the effects of six factors including hydrochloric acid concentration, material-to-liquid ratio, decalcified time, decalcified temperature, working time of ultrasonic gap and ultrasonic power. In basis of optimized single factors, the Box-Behnken design in the response surface was used to optimize the process conditions of turtle carapace decalcification and establish a mathematical model. The effects of ultrasound-assisted decalcification process on the structural properties of collagen were investigated through biochemical character such as Ultraviolet spectrum scanning, SDS-PAGE spectrum, Fourier infrared scanning, amino acid analysis and Circular dichroism spectrum. The results showed that the best process conditions for ultrasonic-assisted decalcification of the carapace were: 0.8 mol/L of hydrochloric acid concentration, 1:40 (g/mL) of material-to-liquid ratio, 60 min of decalcified time, 145 W of ultrasound and 30 s/30 s of ultrasonic gap. Under these conditions, the decalcification rate was 64.97%±1.03%, and the collagen migration rate was 3.22%±0.84%. The results showed that the subunit composition, triple helix structure and secondary structure of carapace collagen remained unchanged. Therefore, ultrasound-assisted hydrochloric acid exhibited a good effect on the decalcification of the carapace of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle, which would provide a basis for further study concerning extraction of collagen from the carapace of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle.

Variation in the Shell Elements of Chrysemys picta bellii (Gray 1831) Assignment of fossil turtle shell elements to a specific taxon is often difficult because the range of variation within the population is usually not well characterized. In addition, it is sometimes not clear whether the fossil forms actually differ from their extant counterparts because often the range of shell element variation in modern species has not been determined. The emydid turtles are no exception, with confusion often arising in the identification of isolated fossil elements and sometimes intact shells representing Emys, Pseudemys, Malaclemys, and Graptemys, as well as the deirochelyids Chrysemys, Clemmys, Deirochelys, and Trachemys. In order to begin providing a database with modern counterparts of the deirochelyid turtles, I have photographed and illustrated seven extant Chrysemys picta bellii shells, six of which were collected at a single pond in Nebraska and one from Ladd Marsh in Union County, Oregon . Photographs and detailed illustrations indicate a broad range in the shapes of many characters. Side by side comparisons of some key elements show that there is significant variation in several important characters (nuchal shape/sulci, entoplastron shape/sulci, and pygal shape/sulci). I also conducted a limited morphometric analysis of several sulcus/suture distance ratios, showing substantial variation between individuals in some cases. Covariance and correlation analysis of this variation suggests that allometry is not involved in most cases. In summary, this work provides a visual and morphometric dataset for aid in identifying and assigning shell elements of fossil emydid turtles.

Free-ranging common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) are commonly evaluated for partial carapace avulsion (PCA) defects from collison with vehicle undercarriages. These defects appear as non-reducible carapace wounds without associated fracture lines. Techniques used in other freshwater turtles which aim to achieve fracture reduction and stabilization are not feasible for PCA defects. This retrospective study details the presentation, treatment, and outcome of traumatic PCA defects in snapping turtles presenting to a wildlife rehabilitation center in Wisconsin. The records of a wildlife center were retrospectively reviewed to identify common snapping turtles diagnosed with PCA defects without visible associated fracture lines from 2014 to 2021. Signalment, description and severity, therapeutic approach, and outcome were evaluated. Of the 20 turtles presenting with PCA defects, 2 (10%) never recovered from sedation, and 6 (30%) were euthanized on initial examination or due to comorbidities early in treatment, leaving 12 (60%) turtles available to assess carapace healing. Most PCA defects were classified as mild or severe (4 of 12 each, 33%), followed by superficial or moderate (2 of 12 each, 17%). Defects of 3 (25%) turtles were treated with only hydrophilic or hyperosmolar dressings, 2 (17%) turtles with antiseptics only, and 7 (58%) turtles with a combination of both. All 12 turtles with PCAs experienced successful healing following topical antibiotic and antiseptic therapy. The median time to carapace healing was 91 days (range, 7–210 days) and the duration of topical therapy was 32 days (range, 5–99 days). Complications included plastron ulceration (2 of 12, 17%), plastron abrasion (1 of 12, 8%) and digit trauma or necrosis (2 of 12, 17%). Results indicate that traumatic PCA defects treated with topical antibiotic and antiseptic therapy have a successful outcome regardless of severity. Most complications were minor, with all resulting in successful carapacial wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Machinery is the property of Food & Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The nutritional differences between the carapace and plastron of turtle shells, and their grinding challenges, are not well understood. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional differences between a turtle shell's carapace and plastron, and the effects of high-pressure steam (HP) and vinegar stir-frying (VS) pretreatments. The carapace showed higher crude protein and fat but lower ash than the plastron. Both pretreatments reduced grinding energy and increased ash content while decreasing protein and amino acids levels. HP resulted in more water-soluble extract (15.13 %), protein (17.26 %), and peptide (20.77 %), whereas total free amino acids (FAAs: 545.62 mg/100 g) were increased by VS. Nutritional value was comparable between carapace and plastron. Additionally, in contrast to the conventional VS pretreatment approach, the HP method not only enhances the grinding process of turtle shells but also promotes the release of their water-soluble constituents. This advancement sets a solid foundation for future comprehensive studies aimed at exploring the nutritional potential of turtle shells. [Display omitted] • Nutritional value was comparable between turtles' carapace and plastron. • High-pressure steam (HP) increased turtle shell (TS)' peptide components. • HP and vinegar stir-frying (VS) benefited TS grinding. • HP and VS increased TS' ash while decreasing protein and amino acids levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To improve the extraction rate and product purity of Chinese soft-shelled turtle （pelodiscussinensis）dorsal collagen. Methods: The decalcification rate and collagen recovery rate were used as evaluation indicators to investigate the effects of hydrochloric acid concentration, decalcification time, decalcification temperature and solid-liquid ratio on the decalcification of the carapace of Chinese soft-shelled turtle. The removal process of calcium salts was optimized, and the structural changes of decalcified and non-decalcified turtle carapace collagen were analyzed by SDS-PAGE, ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy, infrared absorption spectroscopy, amino acid analysis and other techniques under the same extraction conditions. Results: The optimal decalcification process conditions were hydrochloric acid concentration of 0.8 mol/L, decalcification time of 2 h, decalcification temperature of 28 ℃, and solid-liquid ratio of 1∶25 （g/mL）. Under these conditions, the decalcification rate and collagen recovery rate were （67.35±0.92）% and （90.77±1.08）%, respectively. The collagen content and extraction rate per unit mass of soft-shelled turtle carapace were significantly increased （P＜0.05） after decalcification with hydrochloric acid, but the structural characteristics of collagen did not change significantly. Conclusion: Hydrochloric acid has a good decalcification effect on the decalcification of turtle carapace, and has no effect on the structural properties of its collagen.

Shell suture obliteration (ankylosis) was exceptionally frequent in the earliest turtles, in contrast to post-Triassic taxa. Since modern turtles grow mostly along sutures, early ankylosis in Triassic taxa is intriguing. The Triassic turtle Proterochersis porebensis Szczygielski & Sulej, 2016 is known from numerous specimens, allowing observation of shell microstructure changes during ontogeny. Shell ankylosis occurred seemingly randomly in individuals of variable size, including small and morphologically juvenile, and completely obscured the initial bony composition. We propose that this phenomenon in the Triassic turtles can be an effect of early evolutionary stages of shell histogenesis and physiological mechanisms still used in shell regeneration in modern species. We also describe some parallels between the unusual peripheral microstructure of another Triassic turtle, Waluchelys cavitesta Sterli, Martínez, Cerda & Apaldetti, 2020, and Proterochersis porebensis. Microstructural changes imply that Proterochersis porebensis could change habitat during ontogeny, small individuals appearing more aquatic and larger more terrestrial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of morphological innovation has been extensively studied within evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo). Recent studies have demonstrated that the developmental module for double-layered epithelial outgrowths is conserved between the insect wings and branchiopod crustacean carapace, thereby introducing homology among these diverse structures. However, evo-devo studies on the branchiopod crustacean carapace have been primarily limited to a single species, the water flea Daphnia magna, leaving the gene regulatory network governing carapace development not comprehensively understood. Furthermore, realizator genes downstream of the character identity mechanism (ChIM) for bilayered epithelial development remain inadequately described. In this study, we analyzed tissue-specific transcriptional profiles in the developing longtail tadpole shrimp, Triops longicaudatus. We observed significant upregulation of papilin in the carapace-bearing head, along with its expression in both the carapace and the trunk limb lobes. Based on these results, we hypothesize that differential expression of papilin is involved in the disproportional growth of Triops carapace. Our findings will contribute to elucidating the diversification of double-layered epithelial outgrowths across distant arthropod lineages., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

The loggerhead sea turtle is considered a keystone species with a major ecological role in Mediterranean marine environment. As is the case with other wild reptiles, their outer microbiome is rarely studied. Although there are several studies on sea turtle’s macro-epibionts and endo-microbiota, there has been little research on epibiotic microbiota associated with turtle skin and carapace. Therefore we aimed to provide the identification of combined epibiotic eukaryotic, bacterial and archaeal microbiota on Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtles. In this study, we sampled skins and carapaces of 26 loggerheads from the Mediterranean Sea during 2018 and 2019. To investigate the overall microbial diversity and composition, amplicon sequencing of 16S and 18S rRNA genes was performed. We found that the Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtle epibiotic microbiota is a reservoir of a vast variety of microbial species. Microbial communities mostly varied by different locations and seas, while within bacterial communities’ significant difference was observed between sampled body sites (carapace vs. skin). In terms of relative abundance, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota were the most represented phyla within prokaryotes, while Alveolata and Stramenopiles thrived among eukaryotes. This study, besides providing a first survey of microbial eukaryotes on loggerheads via metabarcoding, identifies fine differences within both bacterial and eukaryotic microbial communities that seem to reflect the host anatomy and habitat. Multi-domain epi-microbiome surveys provide additional layers of information that are complementary with previous morphological studies and enable better understanding of the biology and ecology of these vulnerable marine reptiles.

Exploitation freshwater turtle for local consumption, medicine, and pet in several parts in Asia caused the declining populations in the wild. The purpose of this study is to evaluate of turtle harvest that listed in Appendix CITES in South Sumatra and Central Borneo. We reported the trading network of the three most exploited turtle species in South Sumatera and Central Borneo. We visited the largest middleman in the two provinces and collect the data that comprises the harvest number, prices, trade flow, catching area, and the level of harvest for local consumption. During our survey in Sampit (Central Borneo) (one week in April 2019), we recorded 667 kg of turtles were sent to a middleman and harvested from Jemaras and Sembuluh district. This amount comprises 549 individuals of Cuora amboinensis, 173 Siebenrockiella crassicollis, and one individual of Cyclemys dentata. Contrary to that, in Palembang, we did not find any delivery of turtle from the hunters. However, 387 individuals of C. amboinensis and 132 individuals of S. crassicollis were found in a middleman pool. We also recorded that local people in Central Borneo consumption of turtle meat. The national quota of C. amboinensis in Central Borneo and South Sumatra are 1700 and 2000 individuals for 2019. The national quota of S. crassicollis in South Sumatra is 500 individuals, while Central Borneo does not have any quota for this species. The realization of these wild-caught turtles indicates an over harvesting beyond the annual harvest quota. Moreover, the two middlemen are indicated to carry illegal carapace trading, although the scientific authority recommended to ban the carapace trade

There are 42 species of turtles; including sea turtle, freshwater turtle, tortoise, and softshell turtle (Reptilia: Testudines) living in Indonesia today. Turtles have economic values for quite a long time and it has led to illegal trade such as smuggling of carapace and plastron bones. Identification is needed to find out more details about the turtle species. Turtles have shells as unique features with different characteristics on each species. Shell’s identification usually relies on the shape of carapace and plastron. The purpose of this research is to understand turtle shell morphological characters and determine the diagnostic characters of each species. We conducted visual observation on specimen collections from the Laboratory of Animal Systematics, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada and Museum of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. The result shows that each turtle species have their own unique shell bone’s characters, therefore it can be used to determine each turtle species of Indonesia.

Epibionts are organisms that utilize the exterior of other organisms as a living substratum. Many affiliate opportunistically with hosts of different species, but others specialize on particular hosts as obligate associates. We investigated a case of apparent host specificity between two barnacles that are epizoites of sea turtles and illuminate some ecological considerations that may shape their host relationships. The barnacles Chelonibia testudinaria and Chelonibia caretta, though roughly similar in appearance, are separable by distinctions in morphology, genotype, and lifestyle. However, though each is known to colonize both green (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) sea turtles, C. testudinaria is >5 times more common on greens, while C. caretta is >300 times more common on hawksbills. Two competing explanations for this asymmetry in barnacle incidence are either that the species’ larvae are spatially segregated in mutually exclusive host-encounter zones or their distributions overlap and the larvae behaviorally select their hosts from a common pool. We indirectly tested the latter by documenting the occurrence of adults of both barnacle species in two locations (SE Florida and Nose Be, Madagascar) where both turtle species co-mingle. For green and hawksbill turtles in both locations (Florida: n = 32 and n = 275, respectively; Madagascar: n = 32 and n = 125, respectively), we found that C. testudinaria occurred on green turtles only (percent occurrence – FL: 38.1%; MD: 6.3%), whereas the barnacle C. caretta was exclusively found on hawksbill turtles (FL: 82.2%; MD: 27.5%). These results support the hypothesis that the larvae of these barnacles differentially select host species from a shared supply. Physio-biochemical differences in host shell material, conspecific chemical cues, external microbial biofilms, and other surface signals may be salient factors in larval selectivity. Alternatively, barnacle presence may vary by host micro-environment. Dissimilarities in scute structure and shell growth between hawksbill and green turtles may promote critical differences in attachment modes observed between these barnacles. In understanding the co-evolution of barnacles and hosts it is key to consider the ecologies of both hosts and epibionts in interpreting associations of chance, choice, and dependence. Further studies are necessary to investigate the population status and settlement spectrum of barnacles inhabiting sea turtles.

The spider crabs Schizophrys dahlak Griffin and Tranter, 1986 and Hyastenus hilgendorfi De Man, 1887 achieve camouflage through encrusting, allowing sessile organisms such as sponges and also masses of detritus to settle on the crabs and concealing them. Other spider crabs are decorators: they deliberately attach pieces of sponges, algae, etc. to the hooked setae of their bodies. The two species studied herein have hooked setae, but the concealing material is not in obligate association with them. We predicted that these crabs would have intricate setal morphology and unique carapace features that trapped detritus, assisted by the settlement of macro-epibionts, and aiding the crab in attaching pieces of algae, etc. Eight and 10 setal types were discovered and photographed on the exoskeletons of S. dahlak and H. hilgendorfi, respectively. The carapace of S. dahlak was characterised by surface protuberances with clusters of setae as well as patches of denticles in three distributional patterns. Hyastenus hilgendorfi had clusters of denticles located only on orbital regions. Other species of Schizophrys may have far less encrusting material than we saw in S. dahlak. We suspect that the heavy encrustation of these crabs may be related to the turbid environment in the Suez Canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphometric, carapace width/length - total weight relationship and relative condition factor (Kn) of Portunus sanguinolentus from Veraval waters were studied. All the morphometric characters showed a wide range of coefficient of variation indicating high levels of intra-population variation. The comparison of different morphometric characters with carapace width showed good to a high degree of correlation with all the characters indicating a high degree of interdependence of these characters. The relationships between carapace width and total weight were TW = 0.5444 CW2.1961 and TW = 0.8118 CW2.0076 for males and females, respectively. Analysis of Covariance of carapace width - total weight data suggested that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean weight of males and females. Males are heavier than females at any given length of the species. The relative condition factor (Kn) of females was higher compared to males which could be associated with the energy requirement for reproductive processes. The present outcome indicated that males are heavier than females at any given length of the crab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anecdotal reports suggest that bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) may be useful for treating chelonian shell defects, but controlled studies are lacking. Under general anesthesia, 2-cm-diameter, full-thickness carapace defects were created bilaterally in the second costal scute of 12 red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). Defects were managed for 10 days by using negative pressure wound therapy, followed by bandages. Three weeks postoperatively, one defect on each turtle was injected with 0.1 mg of recombinant human BMP-2 carried in bovine type 1 collagen, whereas the contralateral defect was injected with only collagen. Four turtles were euthanized at each of three time points (2, 4, and 12 wk posttreatment). Defects were evaluated by gross appearance, computed tomography, and histology. No difference was noted between the treated and untreated defects. Nonetheless, histologic assessment provided novel characterization of the progression of chelonian shell healing under controlled conditions. Examination indicated that margins of exposed carapace bone underwent osteonecrosis. Re-epithelialization and osteoclastic activity undermined necrotic bone, which was eventually sloughed. Inflammation of the deep wound bed, including the pericoelomic membrane, resolved with completion of re-epithelialization and was associated with the transition of granulation tissue into mature fibrous connective tissue. Osteoid and woven bone formed along remodeled margins and began to bridge the wound along its deep surface within this fibrous connective tissue. Although this study did not demonstrate BMP efficacy, the surgical model described here may be useful for future studies of chelonian shell repair and healing, including studies that evaluate alternative formulations of BMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used a 36-yr study of a turtle community in a northern Indiana lake to examine shell anomalies and temporal changes in their frequency in 3 species. The overall frequency of shell anomalies was 17% in painted turtles (Chrysemys picta), 11% in northern map turtles (Graptemys geographica), and 18% in red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), and there were more anomalies on the carapace than on the plastron in 2 species (C. picta and G. geographica). The probability that an individual would have a shell anomaly was affected negatively by year of first capture and estimated year of hatching in C. picta and by carapace length at first capture in C. picta and T. s. elegans, although the relationships were weak (all r2 ≤ 0.15). Thus, there was no suggestion of a systematic change in shell anomalies over time in the Dewart Lake turtle community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary crustacean cell culture was introduced in the 1960s, but to date limited cell lines have been established. Skogsbergia lerneri is a myodocopid ostracod, which has a body enclosed within a thin, durable, transparent bivalved carapace, through which the eye can see. The epidermal layer lines the inner surface of the carapace and is responsible for carapace synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to develop an in vitro epidermal tissue and cell culture method for S. lerneri. First, an optimal environment for the viability of this epidermal tissue was ascertained, while maintaining its cell proliferative capacity. Next, a microdissection technique to remove the epidermal layer for explant culture was established and finally, a cell dissociation method for epidermal cell culture was determined. Maintenance of sterility, cell viability and proliferation were key throughout these processes. This novel approach for viable S. lerneri epidermal tissue and cell culture augments our understanding of crustacean cell biology and the complex biosynthesis of the ostracod carapace. In addition, these techniques have great potential in the fields of biomaterial manufacture, the military and fisheries, for example, in vitro toxicity testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A parasitic disease causing swollen carapace in commercially important blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus L.) has not received considerable attention; neither its causative agent is identified nor its seasonality is recorded. This study aimed to identify the parasite in P. pelagicus inhabiting the Manila Bay. Parasite found in the branchial chamber were isolated, preserved in ethanol and examined. A total of 292 crab specimens were examined and ten were found to be infected (3.42% prevalence with 0–2 parasites per host). Infections were only observed in November 2014 and between January and June 2015. The highest prevalence of infection (10.34%) was recorded in January 2015 whereas the greatest intensity of infection (up to two parasites per infected crab individual) was recorded from February to April 2015. The parasite, based on morphology, was identified as Allokepon monodi. This study presents the third record of female and second record of male A. monodi infecting a crab species. It also represents the first record of male A. monodi in P. pelagicus and in the Philippines. We recommend further studies on the impacts and economic implications of the disease.

Exploitation freshwater turtle for local consumption, medicine, and pet in several parts in Asia caused the declining populations in the wild. The purpose of this study is to evaluate of turtle harvest that listed in Appendix CITES in South Sumatra and Central Borneo. We reported the trading network of the three most exploited turtle species in South Sumatera and Central Borneo. We visited the largest middleman in the two provinces and collect the data that comprises the harvest number, prices, trade flow, catching area, and the level of harvest for local consumption. During our survey in Sampit (Central Borneo) (one week in April 2019), we recorded 667 kg of turtles were sent to a middleman and harvested from Jemaras and Sembuluh district. This amount comprises 549 individuals of Cuora amboinensis, 173 Siebenrockiella crassicollis, and one individual of Cyclemys dentata. Contrary to that, in Palembang, we did not find any delivery of turtle from the hunters. However, 387 individuals of C. amboinensis and 132 individuals of S. crassicollis were found in a middleman pool. We also recorded that local people in Central Borneo consumption of turtle meat. The national quota of C. amboinensis in Central Borneo and South Sumatra are 1700 and 2000 individuals for 2019. The national quota of S. crassicollis in South Sumatra is 500 individuals, while Central Borneo does not have any quota for this species. The realization of these wild-caught turtles indicates an over harvesting beyond the annual harvest quota. Moreover, the two middlemen are indicated to carry illegal carapace trading, although the scientific authority recommended to ban the carapace trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The origin of the unique body plan of turtles has long been one of the most intriguing mysteries in evolutionary morphology. Discoveries of several new stem‐turtles, together with insights from recent studies on the development of the shell in extant turtles, have provided crucial new information concerning this subject. It is now possible to develop a comprehensive scenario for the sequence of evolutionary changes leading to the formation of the turtle body plan within a phylogenetic framework and evaluate it in light of the ontogenetic development of the shell in extant turtles. The fossil record demonstrates that the evolution of the turtle shell took place over millions of years and involved a number of steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Placodonts are a group of turtle‐like animals, including placochelyids that are restricted entirely to the Triassic Tethyan realm. Their fossil remains are rare compared with other contemporaneous marine reptiles. Here, we report the first subadult specimen of the placochelyid Psephochelys polyosteoderma from south‐western China. It is the most complete specimen of this taxon known. The new fossil is referred confidently to Psephochelys polyosteoderma on the basis of the narrow and spatulate rostrum, toothless premaxillae, and carapace composed of small and numerous armour plates with relatively smooth surfaces. The new specimen provides additional anatomical information for Psephochelys polyosteoderma including the presence of transverse processes on the dorsal vertebrae lacking anteroposterior expansion, and a phalangeal formula in the pes of 1‐2‐3‐4‐2. The phylogeny of placodonts, especially the family Placochelyidae, is revised based on a character matrix incorporating additional postcranial characters. This resulted in a better‐resolved tree when compared with previous studies, with Psephochelys as a derived genus within Placochelyidae. On comparison with the adult holotype specimen, the incompletely developed armour in the new specimen reveals a fusion pattern of the carapace beginning with the axial and marginal regions. This surface fusion pattern resembles the ontogenetic process in the embryonic turtle shell, hinting at a possible deep homology with their common diapsid ancestor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) has been reared in head-starting captivity programs, while the feeding regimens have never been optimized. In the current study, the feeding frequency of hawksbill sea turtle was investigated in indoor experimental conditions. Two-month-old turtles (38.98 ± 0.02 g) were distributed to triplicates of five treatments containing three turtles each and they were fed at different frequencies: one meal daily at 12.00 h (1M12), two meals daily at 08.00 and 12.00 h (2M8–12), two meals daily at 08.00 and 16.00 h (2M8–16), two meals daily at 12.00 and 16.00 h (2M12–16), or three meals daily at 08.00, 12.00 and 16.00 h (3M8–12–16). At the end of an 8-week trial, growth performance (specific growth rate 2.39 ± 0.02% body weight day−1) and feed consumption (feeding rate 2.00 ± 0.43 g day−1) were highest for turtles fed 2M8–16, followed by 2M12–16 or 3M8–12–16 relative to the other treatments (p ˂ 0.05). These treatments had significantly higher trypsin specific activity and trypsin/chymotrypsin ratio, and vice versa for lipase specific activity and amylase/trypsin ratio, relative to the remaining treatments. These match well with the fecal thermal properties that indicate amounts of available and unavailable nutrients present in the feces. Hematological parameters and carapace elemental composition showed no negative effects to turtles in 2M8–16 treatment. Therefore, two meals daily with long time interval were optimal for feeding hawksbill sea turtle. Findings from the current study could be directly used as a feeding guideline supporting the head-starting programs of this species.

The Triassic eastern Tethyan faunas have continued to yield numerous specimens of marine reptile taxa in recent years. Nevertheless, compared with other sauropterygian clades, the diversity of placodonts in these faunas is low, and remains of this group are relatively rare in the fossil assemblages. Here, we report a new cyamodontoid specimen (ZMNH M8820) from the early Late Triassic of Guizhou, south-west China. This specimen is a nearly complete skeleton lacking only the forelimbs. It is distinct from other known Chinese placodonts as it features a large skull with remarkably enlarged supratemporal fenestrae and a small and less regularly arranged carapace. Interestingly, this new specimen resembles the European Cyamodus more than any Chinese cyamodontoid genera, particularly when considering the dentition and other cranial morphology. However, it differs from known Cyamodus species in some cranial features (e.g. epipterygoid fully ossified, posttemporal fenestra large, dentition derived) and the absence of a separate pelvic shield. Furthermore, based on an updated data matrix of placodonts, our phylogenetic results support the affinity of this new Chinese specimen with European Cyamodus species, and a new species, Cyamodus orientalis sp. nov., is erected here. This new material represents the first reported Cyamodus specimen in the world that preserves a three-dimensional skull with an associated postcranial skeleton and it extends the distribution of this genus into the early Carnian of the eastern Tethys. The existence of Cyamodus, a nearshore taxon, in south-west China at this time reveals greater similarity and more rapid intercommunication than previously known between western and eastern Tethyan vertebrate faunas, although the palaeobiogeographical origin and migration history of Cyamodontidae – and of other clades of placodont reptiles – are still obscure due to the scarcity of material from the northern and southern margins of the Palaeotethys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study analyzed the live colour pattern present on the carapace of Portunus pelagicus. Our results indicated that the occurrence of three major colour morphs in the population of P. pelagicus with an intraspecific variation among the female population in Mandapam (Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar) region. The crab population was dominated by carapace colour morph Type 2 (51.27%) in Palk Bay and Type 3 (54.80%) in Gulf of Mannar. There was no evidence of a colour morph difference between ages in observed specimens. The colour morphotypes showed significant difference in the analysed population, among and between the sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the vertebral carapace structure of some Australian chelids to compare the skeletal anatomy of taxa that do not routinely have neurals with those that do. It also provides a comprehensive review of the presence and condition of neurals across all known extinct and extant chelids and considers the evolution of variable possession of neurals in the Chelidae in relation to 2 phylogenetic hypotheses for the family. I found that neurals are completely absent from some taxa and that subsurface neurals are not ubiquitous in chelids that lack neurals on the carapace surface, as previously thought. The review indicates that reduction from the plesiomorphic series of 8 neurals has occurred widely but variably across the chelid radiation and it appears that reduction of the series is an ongoing evolutionary process in the family. Reduction and complete loss of a neural series appears to have occurred on a similar number of occasions when evaluated by either of 2 basic phylogenetic reconstructions and the condition of neurals is thus of limited utility in considerations of higher chelid turtle taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naupliar development in copepods includes the generation of usually five pairs of post-mandibular segments. Since copepod nauplii show no outer body articulation, the only indication of larval segmentation is the expression of limb buds. Yet, in copepods the timing and sequence of limb bud expression in larval development varies to a large degree. In harpacticoid nauplii for instance, the 1st maxillae are formed at an early naupliar stage. By contrast, the four remaining pairs of limb buds frequently appear simultaneously with the last naupliar stage. The complete process of larval segment formation takes place under the body surface and has never been described in detail. To broaden our knowledge of early segmentation in copepods, we here describe the segmentation of the harpacticoid nauplius Tigriopus californicus by analysing the expression of the segment marker Engrailed and uncover the sequential addition of seven post-mandibular segments. The stripe formation and arrangement of labelled cells corresponds largely to those of other crustaceans studied in this respect. Together with a morphological approach using histology, SEM, and 3D-reconstructions based on CLSM we solve the so far controversial identity of the external limb buds in the final naupliar stage. In contrast to previous studies, we can show that all limb pairs from the 1st maxillae to the 3rd thoracopods are formed. Yet, the anlage of the maxilliped (1st thoracopod) remains hidden underneath the cuticle being never externally expressed in the nauplius. • The nauplius of Tigriopus californicus develops seven post-naupliar segments during the larval phase. • The expression of the maxillipeds is repressed during naupliar development of Tigriopus californicus. • The fusion of the head segments with two thoracic segments is indicated by a lateral Engrailed-like expression. • Engrailed-like expression in the nauplius indicates a vestigial carapace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancrustaceans in general display a wide variety of developmental strategies and are morphologically diverse. The evolution of many compelling pancrustacean features, such as limbs and diverse nervous/sensory systems, however, are not well understood due to a lack of sampling across clades. Ostracods are representatives of the understudied, basally branching Oligostraca. While their amazing fossil record is well-characterized, little is known about the development of any oligostracan. We are developing Euphilomedes carcharodonta Smith, 1952 (Myodocopida, Sarsielloidea, Philomedidae) as a novel model for studying evolution and development within Ostracoda. We examined practical aspects including antibody staining, brood size, time course of embryogenesis, and artificial rearing, as well as provide a description of sarsielloid cell-division patterns, a broad description of the embryonic nervous system, limb bud, and developing carapace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of individual's body weight and length is a fundamental procedure in the scientific study of a species. Regression equations of the relationships between length-length and length-weight in crayfish are used to compare populations in terms of condition, growth and development, sexual maturity and populations in different regions. On the other hand, the most important factors affecting the meat yield in freshwater crayfish include ecological characteristics, genetic structure and catching time. In addition, in the determination of meat yield content, the relations between lengthlength and length-weight are commonly used. In this study, the importance of length-length and length-weight relationships in freshwater crayfish is explained in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have explored the ecology and interrelationship with other organisms of the many endangered freshwater turtle species inhabiting the Neotropical region. The focus of the current study was to shed light on the relationship between Neotropical turtle carapaces and primary producers, insofar as the surface of former constitutes a suitable substrate for the colonization and establishment of the latter. The under-explored relationship between turtle carapaces and the diatom assemblages inhabiting them was investigated and characterized in terms of taxonomic and biological traits (bio-volume, life-form, and attachment). The carapaces of seven native turtle species were surveyed. Among these carapaces, a total of 45 diatom taxa were found, and diatom taxa varied among turtle species. Podocnemis vogli and Podocnemis expansa supported more diverse diatom assemblages than Podocnemis lewyana, Rhinoclemmys diademata, and Rhinoclemmys melanosterna, which were dominated by Navicula spp. Analysis, further showed that carapace size did not explain differences in diatom diversity. However, a trait-based analysis suggests that both carapace roughness and an assemblage's successional stage might explain the differences in assemblage composition. Because turtles can serve as dispersal vectors, characterizing their epibiont diatom assemblages may contribute to our understanding of diatom distribution on larger scales, as well as, give us some clues as to the auto-ecology of turtles that help us to effectively determine conservation areas for these endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pappochelys extends the fossil record of Triassic stem-turtles back by some 20 million years, and provides important new insights into how and in what sequence the key features of turtles arose. It shares various derived features with the early Late Triassic stem-turtle Odontochelys, such as T-shaped ribs, a short trunk, and features of the girdles and limbs. At the same time, it is more plesiomorphic in retaining a fully diapsid skull and in lacking both neurals and a plastron with plate-like elements. Pappochelys provides important new evidence that the carapace and plastron of turtles are distinct moieties that evolved independently from each other. The skull of Pappochelys is more or less triangular in plan view. The marginal dentition comprises peg-like teeth with subthecodont implantation. Whereas the upper temporal fenestra is relatively small and rounded, the lower temporal opening is large and ventrally open. The slender vomers are fused. The vertebral column of Pappochelys comprises probably eight cervical, probably nine dorsal, two sacral, and more than 24 caudal vertebrae. The dorsal ribs have asymmetrical anterior and posterior flanges and their external surfaces are heavily ornamented. The gastralia form pairs of robust elements, one per vertebral segment. The scapula has a slender dorsal shaft and a rounded ‘acromial’ flange. The humerus has a slightly dorsally raised proximal head and a gently sigmoidal curvature. The pubis closely resembles that of Odontochelys in overall shape and has a well-developed lateral process. We performed a phylogenetic analysis using a modified character-taxon matrix (272 characters, 50 taxa) from a recent study to assess the placement of Pappochelys among amniotes. Pappochelys was found to nest among Pantestudines with Eunotosaurus and the more derived Odontochelys and Proganochelys. The diapsid affinities of turtles are well supported but it is still unresolved whether turtles are saurians or only related to the latter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]