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
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Large chelid, typically reaching ~18″ carapace at maturity.
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Ambush predator; specialized suction strike.
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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″)
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Diet: Whole-prey fish/shrimp; meaty items; high-protein pellets. (Primarily piscivorous.)
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Water Temp: 75–86 °F (24–30 °C).
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Enclosure: Very large, shallow-friendly footprint; heavy filtration; low current.
Specifications
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Size Shipped: 9″–12″ (Sub-Adult)
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Scientific Name: Chelus orinocensis
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Adult Carapace Length: up to ~18″ (≈45 cm)
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Temperament: Peaceful, solitary
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Care Level: Advanced
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Lifespan (Captivity): 30–40+ years; some sources 40–75 years (uncertain).
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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!




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