The Black-knobbed Map Turtle (Graptemys nigrinoda), often referred to as the Black-knobbed Sawback Turtle, is a small, aquatic turtle native to the southeastern United States. Found primarily in the Mobile and Tombigbee River systems of Alabama and Mississippi, these turtles thrive in rivers with moderate currents and sandy or muddy bottoms. Known for their unique shell pattern and distinct black knobs running along the center of their carapace, they are visually striking and well-loved by turtle enthusiasts.
Black-knobbed Map Turtles have an average lifespan of 20–30 years when cared for properly, and some have been known to live even longer in optimal conditions. They are small to medium-sized turtles; adult males typically reach 3–5 inches in shell length, while females are significantly larger, growing up to 7–10 inches. Their shells exhibit a vibrant olive or brown base color adorned with intricate yellow or orange lines resembling a topographic map. This pattern helps distinguish them from other map turtles.
Males and females are easily differentiated not just by size but also by physical traits like a broader head and longer claws in males, traits that play a role in mating behaviors. Black-knobbed Map Turtles are semi-aquatic and prefer temperate climates. They are known to bask frequently, sometimes stacking on top of one another on rocks or logs. Unlike some turtles, they don’t hibernate but may enter a state of brumation during cooler months in their natural habitat.
Breeding in captivity requires careful preparation, as females lay eggs on sandy nesting sites, often requiring a simulated natural environment for successful hatching.
Advertisement
Black-knobbed Map Turtle Care Guide
Before adopting a Black-knobbed Map Turtle, potential owners should consider the species' specific care needs. They require a clean and well-maintained aquatic environment, basking areas, and proper UV lighting to stay healthy. Handling should be minimal as they can become stressed, and care should be taken to prevent injuries to their shells or skin. Owners with prior experience note that these turtles can be shy but may recognize their caretakers over time, especially during feeding.
Caring for a Black-knobbed Map Turtle involves providing a clean, well-maintained aquatic environment and a balanced diet. Regular health monitoring is essential to prevent issues like shell rot or respiratory infections. Signs of health problems include lethargy, a lack of appetite, or soft patches on the shell. Their shells should be inspected regularly, and basking platforms must be dry and accessible to prevent fungal infections.
Grooming is minimal but includes occasional cleaning of the shell with a soft brush if algae accumulate. Behaviorally, these turtles are shy but active swimmers. They may be wary of new environments but become more comfortable with consistency.
Annual ownership costs range from $200 to $500, depending on initial setup and maintenance. Expenses include a high-quality tank ($150–$300), UVB lighting and heating ($50–$100 annually), filtration systems ($50–$100), food ($100 annually), and veterinary care ($50–$100 per visit). Reputed care brands like Zoo Med and Exo Terra offer essential products such as heat lamps, water conditioners, and basking platforms, which can be found on online platforms like Amazon or specialty reptile stores.
Yes, Black-knobbed Map Turtles are aquatic. They live in rivers with strong currents and rocky bottoms. They like clear water and spend most of their time swimming or basking on rocks and logs.
Black-knobbed Map Turtles are not nocturnal. They are active during the day and rest at night. Their daily routine includes swimming, basking, and foraging for food in the water.
Black-knobbed Map Turtles are primarily insectivorous in the wild, feeding on aquatic insects, mollusks, and small fish. In captivity, their diet can include pellets, live food, and fresh vegetables, but owners should avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and health issues.
Black-knobbed Map Turtles require a varied diet to thrive. Feed them a mix of high-quality commercial turtle pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, and fresh produce such as leafy greens or grated carrots. Offer protein-rich foods, like crickets or small shrimp, a few times a week for juveniles and less frequently for adults.
Avoid feeding them fatty meats, processed human food, or anything high in sugar or salt. A feeding schedule of 4–5 times a week for adults and daily for juveniles is appropriate. Pelleted diets from brands like Mazuri or Rep-Cal are excellent staples and are widely available online and in pet stores.
A well-designed habitat is critical for the health of Black-knobbed Map Turtles. A 40-gallon tank is suitable for a single adult, but larger tanks (75 gallons or more) are recommended for pairs or groups. Their enclosure should include clean, dechlorinated water maintained at 75–80°F, with a basking area heated to 85–90°F. A UVB lamp is essential to support their calcium metabolism and prevent shell deformities.
Incorporate natural elements like smooth rocks, driftwood, and live or artificial aquatic plants to mimic their natural environment. Sand or fine gravel can be used as a substrate, and the water should be filtered using a high-capacity canister filter to maintain cleanliness. For breeding pairs, provide a separate sandy nesting area within the enclosure.
Yes, Black-knobbed Map Turtles can carry Salmonella. This is common in turtles and other reptiles. People can get sick if they don’t wash their hands after touching the turtle or its water.
It is illegal to own a Black-knobbed Map Turtle in Alabama, where it is protected as a native species. Other states may require permits. Always check your local and state wildlife laws first.
Things To Consider Before Adopting A Black-knobbed Map Turtle
When it comes to socialization, these turtles are not ideal for frequent handling but can adapt to being hand-fed once trust is built. They are not well-suited for roaming freely in a house, as they can become disoriented and stressed outside their aquatic environment. For those interested in multi-species habitats, compatible tank mates include other peaceful turtles like some species of sliders, small non-aggressive fish, or snails, provided the enclosure is spacious enough.
Enrichment is vital to keeping these turtles active and healthy. Provide floating logs, platforms, or turtle-safe toys for exploration. Food-based enrichment, like hiding live prey in the tank, can engage their natural hunting instincts. Brands like Zoo Med and Exo Terra offer enrichment products like floating basking docks and interactive feeding tools.
Advertisement
Black-knobbed Map Turtle Cost and Adoption Tips
When adopting or purchasing a Black-knobbed Map Turtle, look for clear eyes, a firm shell, and active swimming behavior as indicators of health. Prices vary but generally range from $50 to $150 in the U.S. Some states, such as Alabama and Mississippi, have regulations on collecting native turtles, so always check local laws. Internationally, the species is available in countries like the UK and Canada but may be subject to import restrictions. Reputable sellers include specialty reptile shops and online platforms like Underground Reptiles or Backwater Reptiles.
Pet Black-knobbed Map Turtle Unboxing
Disclaimer - The above video was not created by PETmuch. The views expressed belong to the creator. We shared it for its potential helpfulness and informational value.
Have experience with this Species ? Please share your experience with us
No comments posted yet !