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The spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera) is a species of softshell turtle, one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. Both the common name, spiny softshell, and the specific name, spinifera (spine-bearing), refer to the spiny, cone-like projections on the leading edge of the carapace, which are not scutes (scales).
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Spiny Softshell being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Apalone mutica
- Pelodiscus maackii
- Pelodiscus sinensis
- Trionyx triunguis
- Nilssonia gangetica
- Apalone ferox
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Reptilia
- Order
- Testudines
- Family
- Trionychidae
- Genus
- Apalone
- Species
- Apalone spinifera
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