Diamondback Terrapin
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Seven different Diamondback Terrapin subspecies (Malaclemys terrapin) inhabit the transition zones between the freshwater rivers and salt water oceans of the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico.
Although none of the subspecies grows larger than a foot in length, their shell appearance differs from location to location. Additionally, all of the subspecies share the physical characteristic of having a white face with dark markings.
Diamondback terrapins are omnivores, but their strong beak allows them to easily crack the mollusk and crustacean shells they find in their territory.
Their extended range means population levels vary from area to area. Little scientific research on population dynamics exist, however wildlife biologists increasingly suggest that population levels are decreasing.
In 1994 Maryland designated the Diamondback Terrapin the official state reptile.
© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels