Home > Animals > Reptiles > Turtles > Tortoises
Mata mata or matamata turtle, Chelus fimbriata
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Mata mata or matamata turtle, Chelus fimbriata
Mata mata or matamata turtle, Chelus fimbriata (fimbriated tortoise, Testudo fimbriata). Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Heath after an illustration by George Shaw from his General Zoology, Amphibia, London, 1801
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23201748
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Amphibia Fimbriata Heath Herpetology Mata Shaw Testudo Tortoise Turtle Matamata
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Reptiles
> Turtles
> Tortoises
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisitely hand-colored copperplate engraving showcases the intriguing features of the Mata Mata or Matamata Turtle (Chelus fimbriata), a unique and fascinating species of freshwater turtle native to the Amazon Basin in South America. The image, created by the skilled hands of Heath after an illustration by Dr. George Shaw in his seminal work "General Zoology, Amphibia," published in London in 1801, offers a detailed and accurate representation of this elusive creature. The Mata Mata Turtle, also known as the Fimbriated Tortoise or the Spectacled Turtle, is renowned for its distinctive appearance. Its large, flat, and broad head, adorned with a series of ridges and tubercles, resembles a mask or a face, earning it the name "Mata Mata," which means "face face" in the Tupi language. Its eyes are shielded by a pair of bony ridges, providing excellent camouflage against predators. The turtle's body is covered in small scales, and its limbs are short and paddle-like, perfectly adapted for swimming in the murky waters of its habitat. The Mata Mata Turtle is an ambush predator, lying in wait at the bottom of the river or lake, using its camouflage to blend in with its surroundings. It feeds primarily on fish and other aquatic organisms, using its long, sticky tongue to snatch its prey. This engraving not only captures the Mata Mata Turtle's striking appearance but also provides a glimpse into the natural history of this remarkable creature, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
