Characteristics of Habitat and Diet of the Southern River Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) in the Conservation Area on the Coast of Aceh, Indonesia

The Southern River Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) is an endangered aquatic species with a critically low population, found only in specific habitats. Surveys revealed that it forages, basks, and mates in freshwater to brackish rivers, while nesting occurs in sandy coastal areas. Its diet consists of crustaceans (41 %), vegetation (41 %), and gastropods (18 %), indicating a primarily carnivorous diet that includes fruits, flowers, leaves, shoots, and aquatic vegetation. Various crustaceans and gastropods were also observed as food sources. Conservation efforts are essential to preserving its habitat and food supply, ensuring the survival of this endemic species.