Pelomedusidae

views updated

Pelomedusidae (hidden-necked turtles; order Chelonia, suborder Pleurodira) A family of freshwater turtles in which there is some vertical bending of the neck in withdrawal before the head is laid to the side. Pelomedusids are omnivores; they live in shallow water, but may travel over land. There are 14 species, occurring in S. America, Africa, and Madagascar.