05. Variability and hybridisation in the introduced pond slider turtle Trachemys scripta in Romania

ABSTRACT - A qualitative survey of the chromatic and morphological variability of the pond slider turtle Trachemys scripta was undertaken in the parks of ten cities in Romania. Large variability was observed, melanistic individuals and intra-specific hybrids were found, and the characteristics of some specimens were such as to imply possible hybridisation with other species. The large morphological variability of the introduced populations of T. scripta indicates multiple geographical origins from the native range and very likely hybridisation. These factors contribute to a great diversity in the introduced populations and may influence their capacity for acclimatisation in the new range.