Stripe Necked turtle found on Lesvos. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Kenghung/ CC BY 4
A team of researchers recently visited Lesvos, the third largest island in Greece, to study local wildlife, according to an article published on August 11 in the peer-reviewed journal Herpetozoa.
During their survey of a medium-sized artificial pond known as the Terrapin Pool, the scientists observed three turtles, later identified as Chinese stripe-necked turtles (Mauremys sinensis).
About Chinese Stripe-Necked Turtles
Native to lakes, rivers, and wetlands across China and Southeast Asia, Chinese stripe-necked turtles are freshwater turtles that can live both in water and on land. They are relatively small to medium-sized, with a domed shell and distinctive yellow or greenish stripes running along their necks and heads.
These turtles are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, small fish, insects, and other invertebrates. Their adaptability, high reproductive rate, and ability to thrive in a variety of freshwater habitats make them a successful, but potentially harmful, invasive species in non-native environments.
In Europe, they are considered invasive and their presence has increased in recent years, largely due to the international pet trade and bans on other pond turtle species.
Researchers raise concerns
The research team included Dionisios Iakovidis, Nikolaos Gogolos, and Thomas Daftsios, described the presence of the turtles as “worrisome” and called for “immediate action to assess the population” as well as “timely removal and additional preventative measures.”
Historically, Lesvos has been home to only two native pond turtles: the Western Caspian turtle and the European pond turtle. Both species were observed at the Terrapin Pool alongside the invasive Chinese turtles, highlighting potential ecological risks, including competition for food and habitat.