Subject
Turtles Books
Best books
Robert G. (Robert Gravem) Webb
Description of a New Softshell Turtle from the Southeastern United States
"Description of a New Softshell Turtle from the Southeastern United States" by Robert G. Webb is a scientific publication produced in the late 20th century. The book provides a detailed examination of a newly identified subspecies of softshell turtle, specifically "Trionyx muticus calvatus", native to the river systems of the Gulf Coast. It is part of a broader effort to catalogue and understand the biodiversity within the southeastern United States. In this work, Webb presents robust descriptions of the new subspecies based on careful morphological examinations of both holotype and paratype specimens collected from regions including Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida. He analyzes key characteristics that differentiate "Trionyx muticus calvatus" from related subspecies, such as distinct patterns of spotting on the carapace and specific features of the snout and shell. The publication includes measurements, habitat descriptions, and comparisons to related species, contributing significantly to herpetological knowledge and the classification of freshwater turtles in North America.
Hobart M. (Hobart Muir) Smith
Kyphosis and other Variations in Soft-shelled Turtles
"Kyphosis and other Variations in Soft-shelled Turtles" by Hobart M. Smith is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. As part of the University of Kansas Publications series from the Museum of Natural History, this work explores specific anatomical anomalies observed in soft-shelled turtles, such as kyphosis, a condition that causes a humped appearance in the carapace of these reptiles. The book presents detailed findings from the examination of various soft-shelled turtle species, primarily focusing on three identified American species: "Amyda emoryi", "A. mutica", and "A. spinifera". Smith discusses the characteristics of kyphotic specimens, including their variations in size, shape, and the implications of these anomalies in relation to growth patterns and potential causes. Additionally, it touches on the anatomical distinctions within Soft-shelled Turtles, contributing to the understanding of their classification and taxonomy. The publication is valuable for researchers, herpetologists, and those interested in turtle biology.
John M. Legler
A New Tortoise, Genus Gopherus, From North-central Mexico
"A New Tortoise, Genus Gopherus, From North-central Mexico" by John M. Legler is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This book presents a detailed taxonomic study of a newly identified species of tortoise, "Gopherus flavomarginatus", which was discovered in north-central Mexico. The work contributes to the broader understanding of the Gopherus genus, highlighting both the physical characteristics and the distribution of this new species. The document outlines the features that distinguish "Gopherus flavomarginatus" from other tortoise species, including its unique shell structure, coloration, and size. It provides detailed descriptions based on various specimens, alongside synonymous observations from historical references and personal field notes collected by the author. Furthermore, the book delves into the tortoise's potential distribution range in Mexico and discusses anecdotal accounts suggesting its presence, underscoring the significance of this discovery in the context of biodiversity and conservation in desert ecosystems. The scientific rigor and detailed analysis make it a valuable resource for herpetologists and researchers interested in the taxonomy and ecology of North American tortoises.
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