Mata Mata

A mata mata (Chelus fimbriatus) is a freshwater turtle that inhabits the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. They are entirely aquatic, although they prefer shallow, stagnant water, where they can easily reach their head out of water to breathe. The mata mata can grow quite large, up to 33 pounds. They feed on invertebrates and fish and aren't dangerous to people. I chose this organism because I like turtles and was interested in a very bizarre and unique aquatic turtle that I have never heard of before.