Razorback Musk Turtle

Description

Razorback Musk Turtle (Sternotherus carinatus) | The Sculpted Musk

High-Contrast “Silver & Orange” Variant | Prehistoric Keeled Shell

The Razorback Musk Turtle is widely considered the most visually striking member of the Sternotherus genus. While other musks tend toward dark, muted tones, Razorbacks stand out with a sophisticated palette ranging from steely gray and silver to vibrant light brown and burnt orange. Their signature feature is a high-domed, triangular carapace with a sharp, permanent medial keel (the “razor back”) that gives them a unique, prehistoric silhouette.

Unlike their more secretive relatives, Razorbacks are enthusiastic baskers. In a home display, they are frequently seen perched on emergent driftwood, making them much more “active” observation pets for a community aquatic setup.

Razorbacks are much lighter in color than most muds and musks. From gray to almost silver, or light brown to orange with spotted or streaked darker markings, they are one of the prettiest. As their name suggests, they have a very prominent keeled shell, and a hinged bottom.

Razorbacks are omnivores, taking pellets, fish, crustaceans, insects, meat, worms and aquatic plants. Shallow bottom dwellers, Razorbacks bask more than do most muds and musks. They are easily kept with other muds and musks, and or in a community tank with other turtle species.

As adults they keep much of their juvenile color, and do well in lager set ups ,or as shallow outdoor pond“garbage disposals.