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16 May 2018 A Distinctive New Species of Mud Turtle from Western México
Marco A. López-Luna, Fabio G. Cupul-Magaña, Armando H. Escobedo-Galván, Adriana J. González-Hernández, Eric Centenero-Alcalá, Judith A. Rangel-Mendoza, Mariana M. Ramírez-Ramírez, Erasmo Cazares-Hernández
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

The genus Kinosternon in Mexico is represented by 12 species of which only 2 inhabit the lowlands of the central Pacific region (Kinosternon chimalhuaca and Kinosternon integrum). Based on 15 standard morphological attributes and coloration patterns of 9 individuals, we describe a new microendemic mud turtle species from the central Pacific versant of Mexico. The suite of morphological traits exhibited by Kinosternon sp. nov. clearly differentiates it from other species within the genus Kinosternon by a combination of proportions of plastron and carapace scutes, body size, and a large yellow rostral shield in males. The new species inhabits small streams and ponds in and near the city of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Unfortunately, natural populations are unknown so far. The habitat is damaged by urban growth, and only one female is known. The available information would suggest that Kinosternon vogti sp. nov., is one of the most threatened freshwater turtle species. An urgent conservation program is necessary as well as explorations in the area to find viable populations of the species.

© 2018 Chelonian Research Foundation
Marco A. López-Luna, Fabio G. Cupul-Magaña, Armando H. Escobedo-Galván, Adriana J. González-Hernández, Eric Centenero-Alcalá, Judith A. Rangel-Mendoza, Mariana M. Ramírez-Ramírez, and Erasmo Cazares-Hernández "A Distinctive New Species of Mud Turtle from Western México," Chelonian Conservation and Biology 17(1), 2-13, (16 May 2018). https://doi.org/10.2744/CCB-1292.1
Received: 20 November 2017; Published: 16 May 2018
KEYWORDS
endangered species
Jalisco
Key Words. – Reptilia
Kinosternidae
Kinosternon vogti sp. nov.
microendemism
Testudines
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