Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle for Sale (Chelus orinocensis)

The Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (Chelus orinocensis) is one of the world’s most extraordinary freshwater turtles, prized by collectors for its prehistoric appearance, suction-feeding behavior, and cryptic camouflage. At Mata Mata Turtle Shop USA, we proudly offer healthy, captive-bred Orinoco Mata Matas in multiple sizes: Infant (3″–5″), Juvenile (6″–8″), and Sub-Adult (9″–12″)—all shipped with our Live Arrival Guarantee across the United States.

Category Description: The Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle

Originating from the Orinoco River Basin in northern South America, the Orinoco Mata Mata (Chelus orinocensis) is distinct from its close relative, the Amazon Mata Mata (C. fimbriata). This species is easily recognized by its reddish body and carapace, oval-shaped shell, and lighter plastron coloration.

Known as a sedentary ambush predator, the Orinoco Mata Mata uses its leaf-like shell, skin flaps, and snorkel-shaped snout to blend into tannin-rich, slow-moving waters. When prey approaches, it performs a powerful suction strike, swallowing fish and aquatic invertebrates whole.

Key Characteristics of Chelus orinocensis

• Appearance: Bark-like carapace, fringed neck skin, snorkel snout

• Adult Size: Up to 18″ (≈45 cm) carapace length

• Behavior: Fully aquatic, low-activity ambush predator

• Lifespan: 30–40+ years in captivity, with reports of 40–75 years in exceptional cases

• Diet: Primarily fish and aquatic invertebrates; suction-feeding specialist

• Water Requirements: Warm freshwater (75–86 °F / 24–30 °C) with low current and high-quality filtration

This turtle is a long-term commitment, making it best suited for experienced reptile keepers seeking a rare, exotic centerpiece for a large aquarium or indoor pond.

Shop by Size

At Mat Mata Turtle Shop USA, we offer the Orinoco Mata Mata in three growth stages:

🐢 Infant Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (3″–5″)

Perfect for advanced keepers who want to raise their turtle from the earliest stage. Infants are small but already display the species’ signature camouflage and red carapace tones.
👉 Buy Infant Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (3″–5″)

🐢 Juvenile Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (6″–8″)

Stronger, more established turtles that adapt quickly to captive environments. Juveniles are easier to feed and showcase developing leaf-like shells and cryptic design.
👉 Buy Juvenile Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (6″–8″)

🐢 Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (9″–12″)

Large, resilient turtles approaching near-adult size. Their prehistoric look and unique ambush behavior make them a stunning display specimen for advanced collections.
👉 Buy Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle (9″–12″)

Comparison: Which Size is Right for You?

Why Buy from Mat Mata Turtle Shop USA?

• Healthy captive-bred turtles sourced with care

• Live Arrival Guarantee on every shipment

• Expert customer support for setup and husbandry

• Nationwide shipping with safe packaging

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the lifespan of an Orinoco Mata Mata Turtle?
A1: In captivity, they regularly live 30–40+ years, and some reports cite up to 75 years with excellent care.

Q2: Do Orinoco Mata Matas bask like other turtles?
A2: No, they are fully aquatic and rarely leave the water, preferring shallow areas where they can extend their snout to breathe.

Q3: What tank size is needed?
A3: Juveniles can be kept in a large aquarium, but adults require an enclosure of 100+ gallons or an indoor pond.

Q4: Are Orinoco Mata Matas aggressive?
A4: No, they are peaceful and sedentary, but they are predators and should not be housed with small fish or turtles.

Q5: How do they feed?
A5: They use suction feeding, opening their mouths wide to create a vacuum that pulls prey in whole.

Explore our collection of Infant, Juvenile, and Sub-Adult Orinoco Mata Mata Turtles for sale. Whether you’re starting with a 3″ hatchling or seeking a 9″ display-ready specimen, we provide healthy turtles, nationwide shipping, and a Live Arrival Guarantee.

👉 Shop Orinoco Mata Mata Turtles Now – Mata Mata Turtle Shop USA