Disclaimer:

The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: Yellow-spotted River Turtle

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Native Range: Podocnemis unifilis is distributed within Bolivia; Colombia; Ecuador; French Guiana; Guyana; Peru; Suriname; Venezuela; and Bolivia (Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group, 1996).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Means of Introduction: Pet escape/release

Status: Failed

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: The animals were released rather than destroyed when they became sick and unsuitable for sale. None recovered. All released between May and September 1964.

References: (click for full references)

King, W. and T. Krakauer. 1966. The exotic herpetofauna of southeast Florida. Quarterly Journal Florida Academy of Science.  29(2): 144-154.

Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group. 1996. Podocnemis unifilis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2015.2. http://www.iucnredlist.org. Downloaded on 20 July 2015.

Author: Powell, R.S.

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.