The reproductive ecology of exotic Trachemys scripta elegans in an invaded area of southern Europe

Abstract

ABSTRACT1. The main reproductive parameters of exotic Trachemys scripta elegans in established populations from two ponds in southern Spain are described.2. Females were found to reproduce at 5 years of age, although sexually mature individuals of 4 and 3 years of age were also detected. Annual reproductive frequency was estimated to be 80-86% of reproductive females. Mean clutch size was 11.5 eggs and was not correlated with maternal body size.3. The number of follicles of different size in ovaries suggested that four or more clutches could be laid per season. Eggs were laid from April to June (inclusive) mainly during morning hours, when females were easily detected during nesting trips. 79.5% of eggs were fertile.4. Reproductive parameters of this species in southern Spain were of similar or even higher values than in native areas, thus placing them among chelonian species of earlier maturity.5. Although chelonians might never be considered explosive breeders, the number of T. s. elegans individuals could surpass that of native aquatic chelonians in southern Spain, where T. s. elegans reach maturity earlier, are more fecund and their eggs are more fertile.

Diagnosis and management of oviductal disease in three red‐eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans)

“…The vagina enters the urodeum of the cloaca (Johnson 2004, Jacobson 2007). In free‐ranging, red‐eared slider turtles, oviposition occurs between April and June, and mean clutch size is 11·5 eggs (Perez‐Santigosa and others 2008).…”

Does the exotic invader turtle, Trachemys scripta elegans, compete for food with coexisting native turtles?

“…In these ponds, the Mediterranean Pond turtles (M. leprosa) are abundant, while the European Pond turtles (E. orbicularis) are scarce or in decline (a more detailed descriptions of these populations as well as of the study ponds can be found in Pérez-Santigosa et al, 2006, andHidalgo-Vila, 2008). Most turtles were captured with submerged nets; female exotic turtles were also captured by hand when leaving the pond for nesting.…”

The Burden of Salmonellosis in the United States

“…A local animal control agency in Los Angeles County found that an increasing number of turtles have been dumped over the years; they impounded over 6,000 illegally sold, undersized red-eared slider turtles from 2000-2007 (unpublished data). The upward trend in the abandonment of turtles and the turtles' high fecundity rates may also increase the risk of transmission to native species (Perez-Santigosa et al, 2008). Nearly 10% of all reported cases of human salmonellosis in Los Angeles County have been attributed to direct or indirect contact with reptiles, namely the red-eared slider turtle, the most common reptile source found in more than 50% of these cases (LACDPH, 2008).…”