Australia is home to a diverse freshwater turtle fauna including more than 25 species and an array of side-necked turtle subspecies. The biology and ecology of Australian freshwater turtles is complex and a number
of species are of particular conservation concern. Many affected species are found on Australia’s east coast,
where the river systems are most heavily modified due to the pressures of development.
Freshwater Turtles of Australia is a beautifully illustrated and comprehensive monograph based on John
Cann’s highly respected Australian Freshwater Turtles (1998). It reviews new information on the biology of Australian chelid turtles, presents recent perspectives and insights into their history and taxonomy, and
provides an introduction to the freshwater turtles of New Guinea and Irian Jaya to Australia’s north. This
landmark work brings together years of research and experience and will serve as an important reference for
researchers, academics, and herpetologists for many years to come.
