Parham, J.F.*; Simison, W.B.; Kozak, K.H.; Feldman, C.R.: A reassessment of some recently described Chinese turtles

Over the past 16 years, herpetologists described 13 new species of turtles. Most of these are based on specimens purchased from the pet trade. Herpetologists collected only two of these species, the rest have not been observed in the areas and habitats in which they were reported to occur. Questions have been raised about the validity and conservation of these rare and putatively endangered turtles. We used mitochondrial DNA and allozyme electrophoresis to test the validity of two of these new species (Mauremys iversoni and Cuora serrata). Both lines of evidence support the idea that these turtles are intergeneric hybrids. This hypothesis is consistent with the morphology of these turtles, which is intermediate between the two genera. Serious issues remain. Other “new” turtle species require intensive investigation: Whereas some are probably valid species worthy of conservation, others may be turtle farm hybrids. The parent species of Mauremys iversoni are common in turtle farms, and the accidental production of this “species” has been documented. But the parent species of C. serrata are not farmed. In fact, the latter may be a naturally occurring hybrid. We cannot assume that all the hybridization is anthropogenic, but how do we separate natural hybridization from husbandry? The ability of turtles to hybridize readily is well documented. Could reticulation be a common source of new species in turtle evolution? New observations from China suggest that most of the new "species" are artificially produced.