paw
Search Wilds
← Back to Animal Library
Matamata
Least Concern

Matamata

Chelus fimbriata

The matamata is a bizarre-looking freshwater turtle that relies on camouflage and suction feeding to catch fish.

Category Reptile
Habitat Wetland
Diet Carnivore
Lifespan 15-30 years
Size 40-50 cm shell length
Scientific Name Chelus fimbriata

About Matamata

The matamata is a bizarre-looking freshwater turtle that relies on camouflage and suction feeding to catch fish.

It belongs to the Reptile group and is commonly associated with wetland habitats with a carnivore diet, with a lifespan of 15-30 years, a size of 40-50 cm shell length, a conservation status of Least Concern.

Fun Fact

Its rough shell and leaf-like head help it blend into muddy riverbeds and floating debris.

Where Matamata Lives

Search by place →

No map locations added yet. Add locations in Django admin.