Description of a New Softshell Turtle from the Southeastern United States

A scientific publication produced in the late 20th century. The book provides a detailed examination of a newly identified subspecies of softshell turtle, specifically ''Trionyx muticus calvatus'', native to the river systems of the Gulf Coast. It is part of a broader effort to catalogue and understand the biodiversity within the southeastern United States. In this work, Webb presents robust descriptions of the new subspecies based on careful morphological examinations of both holotype and paratype specimens collected from regions including Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida. He analyzes key characteristics that differentiate ''Trionyx muticus calvatus'' from related subspecies, such as distinct patterns of spotting on the carapace and specific features of the snout and shell. The publication includes measurements, habitat descriptions, and comparisons to related species, contributing significantly to herpetological knowledge and the classification of freshwater turtles in North America.