Researchers have discovered a new species of extinct turtle in the Amazon, named Peltocephalus maturin, believed to be one of the largest freshwater turtles on record with a nearly six foot shell estimated to be 70 inches long. This discovery surpasses the size of the current largest species, which have carapaces no longer than 55 inches. The species was named after a character from Stephen King's works.
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Scientists discover the fossil of a giant freshwater turtle with a nearly six foot shell. Named Peltocephalus maturin after Stephen King's Maturin. https://t.co/eiH7ChXG3E https://t.co/4qqSXJuqLi
New species of extinct turtle found in Amazon, named for Stephen King character https://t.co/vsohNOc9OC https://t.co/QdlpjKxt6g
Researchers believe Peltocephalus maturin was one of the largest freshwater turtles on record. While the current largest species have carapaces no longer than 55 inches, the fossil turtle’s shell is estimated to have been 70 inches long. https://t.co/YQByRlDbM6