Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
(
click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Emydura macquarii (Bellinger River)
Gazetted date:
21 Feb 1997
Profile last updated:
07 Oct 2020
Description
The Bellinger River Emydura has been delisted in NSW. In the past the Bellinger River Emydura was believed to differ morphologically from other populations of the widespread Emydura macquarii complex but it is now thought to be within the range of normal genetic and morphological variation for the species. Therefore, individuals of the Bellinger-Kalang River system are now believed to be part of a much larger population than previously thought and, consequently, the criteria for listing are no longer met. The Bellinger River Emydura is a medium-sized freshwater turtle with a brown shell to 25 cm long. It can be distinguished from other turtle species occurring in the Bellinger River by the combination of short neck (extended head and neck shorter than shell), golden yellow iris, and shell without a serrated rear margin and without black-edged seams on the underside.
Distribution
The Bellinger River Emydura is restricted to the Bellinger and Kalang catchments on the NSW north coast.
Habitat and ecology
- Long, deep pools in broad reaches of the upper Bellinger River.
- Diet includes small crustaceans, insects, algae and aquatic weed.
- Clutches of eggs are laid in nests excavated in the river banks between October and January.
- Fallen timber (snags) in the river are used as basking sites.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Pollution and sedimentation of river habitat.
- Removal of or damage to riverside vegetation.
- Predation by foxes.
- Competition with other turtles species.
- Release of captive turtles from other catchments into the Bellinger River.
- Line fishing.
Recovery strategies
Priority actions are the specific, practical things that must be done to recover a threatened species, population or ecological
community. The Office of Environment and Heritage has identified
10 priority actions
to help recover the Bellinger River Emydura in New South Wales.
Activities to assist this species
- Avoid using stainless steel fishing hooks (which do not rust).
- Do not release captive turtles from other catchments into the Bellinger River.
- Assist in fox control.
- Retain and enhance river bank vegetation to protect water quality and provide shade, fallen timber and nesting sites.
- Prevent grazing stock from damaging river bank vegetation or polluting river water.
- Report any sightings of the Bellinger River Emydura to the DEC.
Information sources
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001) Bellinger River Emydura Emydura macquarii (Bellinger River) Recovery Plan. NPWS, Coffs Harbour.
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) Threatened Species of the Lower North Coast of New South Wales. (NSW NPWS, Hurstville)
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