The Yellow-throated Turtle, also known as the Stone Turtle or Sweet Tortoise, is native to regions such as southern China and Vietnam. These turtles are commonly found in provinces like Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui, but those from Vietnam are often larger and more vibrant in appearance. In local markets, the large yellow-water turtle from Vietnam is referred to as the "Stone Money Turtle." This species holds significant value in traditional Chinese medicine due to its detoxifying properties and effectiveness in treating chronic conditions such as old stomach ailments and bronchitis. As a result, it's highly sought after in health products and therapeutic drugs.
Moreover, the Yellow-throated Turtle is widely used in breeding green-haired turtles, making it an important species for commercial aquaculture. With wild populations being limited, the demand for these turtles far exceeds supply, leading to high market prices—up to 600–800 yuan per kilogram. This makes turtle farming a promising and profitable business opportunity.
**Physical Characteristics and Behavior**
Yellow-throated Turtles belong to the reptile family, specifically the turtle subfamily. Their carapace is brown with three distinct ridges, while their plastron is yellow with dark spots, giving it the name "Ivory Plate." They have a small head, smooth skin, and two yellow vertical stripes behind the eyes. The throat is yellow, hence their common name.
Male and female turtles exhibit clear differences: females have a broader, flatter plastron, a short tail, and a thick body, while males have a darker coloration, a slightly concave middle plastron, and a longer, thinner body. These turtles are primarily aquatic but often climb onto land, especially during warmer months. They hibernate when temperatures drop below 12°C, typically from November to April, and become active again when the temperature rises above 20°C.
**Habitat and Feeding Requirements**
To breed Yellow-throated Turtles successfully, it's essential to create a suitable environment. Turtle ponds should be built in sunny, quiet areas with good water sources. Ponds can be either soil-based or concrete, with depths ranging from 80–100 cm. The water level should remain stable, and during hot weather, shade is necessary to prevent overheating.
Turtles are omnivorous, and their diet can include both animal and plant-based foods. Animal feeds such as fish, shrimp, clams, and organ meats are preferred, while plant materials like soybean meal, corn, and fruits can also be included. Feeding should be done at fixed times and locations, with portions accounting for about 5% of the turtle’s body weight. Water quality must be maintained, with a pH between 7.2 and 8.5, and clarity of 30–50 cm.
**Breeding and Hatching**
In the wild, Yellow-throated Turtles mature around 6 instars (about 300 grams) and reach peak reproduction at around 10 instars. Under artificial conditions, a male-to-female ratio of 3:1 is ideal. Mating occurs when water temperatures exceed 20°C, usually in the evening. Females lay eggs between mid-May and early August, with the best spawning temperature being 28–32°C. After laying eggs, they cover them with sand and leave them to incubate naturally.
For higher hatching rates, artificial incubation is recommended. Eggs are collected carefully and placed in wooden boxes filled with damp sand. The incubation temperature should be maintained between 28–34°C, and the sand moisture should be just enough to form a ball when squeezed. After approximately 50 days, the hatchlings emerge with a survival rate of over 95%.
**Juvenile Care and Disease Prevention**
Newly hatched turtles, called hatchlings, require special care. They are kept in smooth containers with minimal water for 2–4 days to allow the yolk sac to absorb. Afterward, they are moved to hatchery pools with shallow water and bait stations. Juveniles should be fed easily digestible food like minced fish, egg yolk, and lean meat. Water changes should be frequent, and the temperature difference should not exceed 3°C.
Disease prevention is crucial. Poor water quality, sudden temperature changes, and unbalanced diets can lead to health issues. Regular water disinfection and proper feeding practices help maintain turtle health. By following these guidelines, breeders can ensure the successful growth and development of Yellow-throated Turtles, contributing to both conservation and commercial success.
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