Satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle released in Kaziranga

Guwahati: In a first in the nation, a satellite tagged endangered Ganges softshell turtle was released at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR), officials said on Friday.Announcing the achievement on the occasion of Endangered Species Day, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote on ‘X’, “A first for India at Kaziranga! Marking Endangered Species Day, the country’s first satellite-tagged Ganges Softshell Turtle was released in Kaziranga, a major step for wildlife conservation. A proud moment for Assam as we continue to protect every species that calls our forests home.”KNPTR director Sonali Ghosh said Assam ranks among the world’s top-priority regions for freshwater turtle conservation due to its remarkable diversity.

She added that the state is home to 21 species of turtles, making it one of the richest turtle habitats in Asia.Significantly, of the eight softshell turtle species reported in India, five are found in Kaziranga alone. “The Ganges softshell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica), listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, can be identified by the distinct arrowhead-shaped markings on the top of its head,” Ghosh said.

The species is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.Senior scientist at the Wildlife Institute of India, Abhijit Das said the satellite-tagging initiative would help researchers better understand the species’ seasonal movement patterns, home range and critical habitats.“Understanding seasonal movement patterns, home range and identifying critical habitats such as nesting and breeding sites will help in the active management and conservation of softshell turtles in the Brahmaputra river basin,” Das said.