Red-cheeked Mud Turtle

1 Overview

The red-cheeked mud turtle (Kinosternon scorpioides cruentatum) is a Central American mud turtle prized for the reddish markings on its head and limbs. It is a subspecies of the scorpion mud turtle.

It stays small and is a good candidate for a compact aquatic terrarium.

2 Appearance

The dark carapace is smooth and low; the head and neck show reddish or pinkish blotches that give the name. Adults are generally 12-18 cm.

3 Care & Temperament

A small tank with a basking spot, warm clean water, and soft substrate. Mostly aquatic but appreciates a haul-out.

Shell rot follows poor water quality, so filtration and regular partial changes matter.

4 Habitat & Environment

Shallow, well-filtered water with a gentle land margin and UVB basking. They like to hide among structure.

5 Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous: pellets, small fish, insects, and some plant matter. Feed modest amounts every 2-3 days and remove leftovers.