Tyler,

C. insculpta are rare, as there have only been a few recorded captive breedings with the species, with none taking place within the realm of private herpetoculture.
While C. insculpta make hardy and enjoyable captives, they are not a bargain species and if cost of acquisition is of concern, I doubt you will be prepared for the cost of successfully maintaining one long term. Also, the species has recently been amended to CITES Appendix II protective status, so the price for available specimens will only climb and you must be careful regarding the acqusition of illegal specimens, though some will say all specimens within the US are of illegal origins. Also, keep in mind it is illegal for suppliers to sell any turtles with a carapace under 4" and you can expect to pay an average price of 100.00 per inch for C. insculpta.
Having said all of that, should you be able to find a well priced, healthy specimen and provide it with an appropriate aquaria and husbandry, you should find they are not too much trouble to maintain and are an absolute joy to work with...

Best regards,

Jeff



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Jeff Snodgres
University of Arkansas
snodgresjeffreys@uams.edu
501.603.1947

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