Buy Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (9″–12″)  Online USA

For advanced turtle enthusiasts, our Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtles (9″–12″) are a premium choice. These turtles are already significantly grown, showcasing their full prehistoric appearance, reddish carapace, and unique head structure.

At this size, they are more resilient and require a large aquatic habitat with a stable water temperature between 24–30 °C. Their diet consists of pellets, larger fish, shrimp, meats, vegetables, and fruits.

These turtles are close to reaching their adult carapace size of 35–45 cm, making them a centerpiece for exotic turtle collections.

These sub-adults display the species’ full prehistoric profile—flat, bark-like carapace, ragged neck flaps, and a tube snout for stealth breathing. Orinoco lineage features lighter soft-part tones and more oval shells than the Amazon counterpart. Expect a calm, display-oriented turtle that thrives in warm, shallow, slow-moving water with top-tier filtration.

Key Characteristics of Chelus orinocensis

• Large chelid, typically reaching ~18″ carapace at maturity.

• Ambush predator; specialized suction strike.

• Fully aquatic, minimal basking; prefers quiet, shallow habitats.

Lifespan & Owner Commitment

Expect a long-term companion. Captivity records surpass 30 years; many guides cite 40–75 years with exemplary care, though published maxima vary across sources.

Care Snapshot (Sub-Adult 9″–12″)

• Diet: Whole-prey fish/shrimp; meaty items; high-protein pellets. (Primarily piscivorous.)

• Water Temp: 75–86 °F (24–30 °C).

• Enclosure: Very large, shallow-friendly footprint; heavy filtration; low current.

Specifications

• Size Shipped: 9″–12″ (Sub-Adult)

• Scientific Name: Chelus orinocensis

• Adult Carapace Length: up to ~18″ (≈45 cm)

• Temperament: Peaceful, solitary

• Care Level: Advanced

• Lifespan (Captivity): 30–40+ years; some sources 40–75 years (uncertain).

• Water Temp: 75–86 °F (24–30 °C)

Secure your Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (9″–12″) today – live arrival guaranteed across the USA!