There’s hope: In Malaysia, the southern river terrapin was previously recorded only in Kedah, Perak and Terengganu.
PETALING JAYA: In a breakthrough for conservation, the critically endangered southern river terrapin (Batagur affinis) has been discovered by chance in Pahang.
This finding represents a noteworthy extension of the known habitat for this rare species.
The Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS) and the Pahang Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) announced the discovery in the Kuantan River after a terrapin was accidentally captured by a fisherman.
“This discovery marks a significant extension of the species’ known range, which was previously recorded only in Kedah, Perak and Terengganu,” said Dr Chen Pelf Nyok, executive director of TCS, in a joint statement.
Caring touch: A Pahang Perhilitan official tending a clutch of southern river terrapin eggs.
The terrapin was first identified after a local fisherman, Mohd Rizal Mohd Ibrahim, caught it by chance during a fishing trip.
“This incident led to field surveys conducted by TCS and Pahang Perhilitan rangers, who subsequently identified potential nesting sites along the Kuantan River.
“In two separate nesting events, a total of 41 eggs were collected for incubation. This new information suggests that the Kuantan River could play a role in the species’ reproduction and survival,” said Chen.
In the statement, TCS president Dr Maketab Mohamed said the discovery expands the scientific understanding of the species’ range and offers new opportunities for effective conservation.
“The identification of a population of river terrapins in Pahang strengthens our belief that with the right conservation strategies, we can make a meaningful impact in safeguarding this species for future generations.”
River terrapins are facing severe threats from habitat loss, poaching and environmental change.
Pahang Perhilitan director Rozidan Md Yasin said researchers are now focusing on protecting the eggs, identifying potential threats, and implementing tailored conservation measures.
“This discovery underscores the importance of Pahang as a critical habitat for endangered species,” he said.
“We are committed to working with TCS and the local communities to ensure the preservation of this species in our rivers. The department will continue to support efforts to protect the river terrapin and its habitat through rigorous monitoring and conservation initiatives.”
The expanded range of the species raises questions about the connectivity between terrapin populations in different regions of Malaysia.
“This discovery highlights the importance of ongoing field research and monitoring in freshwater ecosystems, and the collaboration between local authorities, researchers and conservationists will be vital to ensuring the future viability of this newly discovered population,” added Chen and Rozidan in the statement.
Founded in 2011 by Dr Chan Eng Heng and Chen, TCS is Malaysia’s first non-profit organisation dedicated to freshwater turtle conservation.
The society works to restore depleted wild populations through partnerships with organisations, individuals and local communities, as well as its own conservation programmes.
