Reptile
The matamata turtle
Chelus fimbriatus
The matamata turtle, Chelus fimbriatus, is a species of freshwater turtle with spiky ridged scales. It has very specific physical features compared to other turtles.
Distinctive features
With its spiny scales and rocky-looking head, this turtle is the queen of camouflage. It may weigh more than 10 kg as an adult, but it has no trouble blending in with the muddy riverbeds of the Amazon basin.
Anecdote
In turbid waters, the two sensory barbels around its mouth enable it to detect its prey more easily. Carnivorous, it feeds mainly on small fish.
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