The distribution and nature of the habitat of the caspian terrapin Mauremys caspica rivulata (Testudines: Emydidae) in Israel

Mauremys caspica rivulata inhabits all types of fresh to brackish perennial water bodies (excluding fast flowing streams), natural as well as man-made. The turtle is found in lowland areas of the Mediterranean and lrano-Turanian regions, north of the 200- 300 mm average annual isohyets, most frequently in polluted waters. The absence or scarcity of natural perennial water bodies appears to be the major factor limiting the distribution of this species in Israel. The Lakhish stream is currently the southern limit of the continuous distribution of this species in Israel. The ability of the Caspian terrapin to thrive in a wide range of habitats, including sewage-oxidation lagoons, may enable it to expand its range in the future to newly formed man-made aquatic habitats.