California map turtle (SciiFii)

The California map turtle (Graptemys californianus), sometimes known as the California sawback turtle, is a species of aquatic, freshwater map turtle which originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, lakes, rivers, and ponds of western North America to help boost biodiversity. As with other species of map turtles, California map turtles resemble many other species of aquatic turtles, including sliders (Trachemys) and cooters (Pseudemys). However, they are distinguished by a keel that runs the length of the center of the carapace. In some populations, the keel can result in vertebral spines, resulting in the California map turtle's other name — "sawback". They also typically grow to a smaller size at maturity. They are given the common name "California map turtle" due to the map-like markings on the carapace. Californoa map turtles are known for intricate head markings and strong sexual dimorphism with mature females twice the length and 10 times the mass of mature males. Map turtles are more carnivorous than most other members of the family Emydidae, and the California map turtle is no exception. Adult females have wide heads, strong jaws and broad alveolar crushing surfaces in their mouths which they use to feed on molluscs, their primary prey, as well as insects and crayfish. Adult males are much smaller and have narrower heads and feed on smaller molluscs and insects. Like many other aquatic turtles, feeding always takes place in the water. In places where invasive molluscs such as zebra mussels and Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea) are abundant, they may become the most important food of female California map turtles. The California map turtle is a strong swimmer and prefers rivers, ponds, and large creeks with mild and moderate currents, containing aquatic vegetation, as well as snags or floating logs. They are also comfortable in deep and swift water. The California map turtles are present in oxbow lakes and sloughs, but are absent from small streams. Basking is important to these turtles, and they may even be found on steep, slippery snags. California map turtles are avid baskers, spending many hours during the day in the sun. When with other turtles, they also are very communal, sharing space and using each other for predator-watching, increasing the odds of surviving an attack. California map turtles are also quite shy and difficult to approach; they usually slip into the water and hide at the first hint of danger. California map turtles breed in the spring and summer. Most mating takes place in deep waters. The nesting period lasts from April to June. Unshaded sites with sandy soil are highly preferred. The female usually chooses well-drained areas for depositing the eggs. The nest cavity is dug with the hind feet. The size of the clutch is between 12 and 30. The eggs are oval, about 3.2 centimeters (1.3 inches) long, and have a flexible shell. After the eggs are laid, the cavity is filled. They hatch after 40 to 60 days of incubation, and most hatchlings emerge in July to August. When a nest hatches late, the California map turtle hatchlings have been known to overwinter in the nest. The female usually lays two or more clutches in one breeding season. The sexes of the young are determined by the temperature. At 2 °C (35 °F), incubation produces a majority of males, whereas 40 to 70 °C (104 to 158 °F) yields more females. The conservation status of the California map turtle is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the California map turtle's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.