Invasive speciesTrachemys scripta elegans found in the wild inTerceira Island
- March 11th, 2011
- Biodiversity
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On last February 22nd a fresh water turtle of the species Trachemys scripta elegans was found, by the technician of the Azorean Biodiversity Group, Fermando Pereira, in the dry stream next to the University Campus of Angra do Heroísmo. This turtle, commonly known as Red-eared sliders is probably the most common reptile pet in the world. This species has been nominated as among 100 of the "World's Worst" invaders (http://www.issg.org/worst100_species.html). It has an incredible ability to adapt to new environments, so that it can cause a very negative impact in the natural ecosystems. This species originates from the United States of America, but it is currently distributed in the wild all over the world, due to human introductions. It occurs in lakes, ponds, swamps, riparian zones, water courses, etc.