Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What are the differences between turtles and terapins if any? Just curious...Thanks!

This question is actually dependant on location. Terrapins are turtles, but in several countries the term terrapin is used interchangeably with the term turtle for various species. There are several species whose common name is specifically Terrapin such as the Painted River Terrapin from Southeast Asia or the Diamondback Terrapin from the United States eastern seaboard. In the United States the term Terrapin is used for the Diamondback terrapin to separate this species as the only species to live exclusively in brackish water. The term Terrapin actually derives from an indian word meaning "little turtle".
Hope this helps!

Hey thanks a lot! I was at a reptile show about a year ago and there was a dealer selling some type of terrapins and if I had the money then, I would have bought one. Now, I think I might set up a new aquarium and I was going to possibly buy one of them but I wasn't sure what the deal was with them. Thanks again!

Sounds good. If you do decide to purchase specifically a Diamondback terrapin, be sure that it is captive bred (this is to be said for any turtle purchase) and do your homework first. Here is a link to get some information on Diamondback care. I also personally raise hatchling Diamondbacks so will be glad to answer any questions.

http://www.chelonia.org/articles/Malaclemyscare.htm

-JG