Japanese Pond Turtle Plush – Lifelike, Vibrant, and Perfect for Turtle Lovers

The Japanese pond turtle (Mauremys japonica), also known as the Japanese pond terrapin or Japanese pond tortoise, is a freshwater turtle endemic to Japan. Found in rivers, ponds, lakes, and even rice paddies, these turtles are essential inhabitants of Japan’s wetlands. With their distinctive dark shells adorned with orange-brown patterns and their ability to thrive in both flatlands and mountainous regions, they are a fascinating species to observe.

Fun fact: The Japanese pond turtle is sometimes called the "stone turtle" in Japanese (nihon ishigame) due to its tough and resilient appearance. Despite its adaptability, habitat loss has caused a decline in its population, and it is currently listed as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN.

Another interesting behavior is their ability to hybridize with other turtle species, such as the Chinese pond turtle and the Chinese box turtle, when in captivity. This unique trait highlights their genetic flexibility, though it underscores the importance of protecting their natural habitats to maintain their genetic integrity.