New distribution records of Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei (Testudines: Chelidae) from southeastern Brazil, including observations on reproduction

Abstract

Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei is a poorly known freshwater turtle widely distributed in central South America, where it occurs in Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, and probably Bolivia. It is considered “Near Threatened” by the IUCN Red List and “Data Deficient” by other local lists. Herein, we present new records and data on the reproductive biology of Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei in southeastern Brazil.

Keywords

• Cerrado
• chelonians
• reptiles
• South America.