red river giant softshell turtle

The Red River Giant Softshell Turtle (Rafetus swinhoei) is one of the largest freshwater turtles globally, characterized by its broad, flattened shell and pig-like snout. Once widespread across the Red and Yangtze River basins, the species has suffered drastic declines due to habitat destruction and overexploitation. With only two known individuals remaining, it is considered functionally extinct. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and the search for potential mates to prevent complete extinction.