Painted Terrapin Research Articles

Assessment of nesting beach and reproductive output of critically endangered painted terrapins (Batagur borneoensis) in Terengganu, Malaysia

Assessment of nesting beach and reproductive output of critically endangered painted terrapins (Batagur borneoensis) in Terengganu, Malaysia

Assessment of Riparian Ecosystem Health in the Tamiang River, Aceh, Indonesia as Remains Habitat of Batagur borneoensis (Schlegel & Muller, 1844)

The riparian zone along the Tamiang River, Aceh Province, is an important habitat for the survival of the tuntong laut (Batagur borneoensis) which is already threatened with extinction. This study aims to evaluate the quality and role of the riparian zone as a habitat for B. borneoensis along the Tamiang River, which can then be used as a reference in conservation. Riparian habitat quality was assessed by calculating the Qualitat del Bosc de Ribera (QBR) index, which was determined based on the total riparian cover, cover structure, cover quality, and channel alteration. In addition, observations of water quality (salinity, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen (DO)) and the number of riparian vegetation species were also carried out. Monitoring was carried out at five stations: Iyu River, Kampung Baru, Batang Lawang, Pusong Kapal Dermaga, and Pusong Kapal. The results showed variations in water quality between locations with DO and turbidity levels exceeding the quality standards set by the government. The richness of the types of riparian vegetation found ranged from 0-8 species (seedlings), 2-7 species (saplings), and 1-4 species (poles). The quality of riparian habitats in all study locations experienced significant degradation, including the euhemerobic and polyhemerobic (Hemeroby) categories, Cultural assisted system and Semi-transformed system (Naturalness), and Extreme degradation to poor-fair quality (QBR). The presence of B. borneoensis in the research location can adapt to the poor quality of riparian habitat. However, the density decreases significantly at higher salinity.

The First Mitochondrial Control Region Dataset: Critically Endangered Freshwater Turtles in Malaysia, Orlitia borneensis and Batagur borneoensis

The Malaysian Giant Turtles and Painted Terrapin mitochondrial control region has the first data deposited to the GenBank database. This dataset describes phylogenetic tree relationships between the genera Orlitia and Batagur. Orlitia borneensis and Batagur borneoensis are freshwater turtles listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and among 24 species of turtles in Malaysia. Since both species are critically endangered, the data provided here can be used for future conservation genetics studies in order to protect the species from being driven to extinction. A sample of each species was collected aseptically from adult O. borneensis (male) and B. borneoensis (female) in captivity at Bukit Paloh, Kuala Berang, Terengganu. The data for this study can be found in the GenBank database with accession numbers OQ571740 and OQ571740.

Painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) characteristics and existence in mangrove ecosystems on Pusung Cium Island, Aceh Tamiang Regency

Painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) is one of the animals whose status is almost extinct and is included in the list of protected animals based on PP No. 7 of 1999. Based on data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Painted Terrapin is ranked 25th out of 327 species in the world that are included in the rare category. The purpose of this study was to determine the number and characteristics of nests and the number of eggs of painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) in Aceh Tamiang. This research was conducted from November 2019 to January 2020 on Pusung Cium Island, Seruway District, Aceh Tamiang Regency. determination of the sampling location using a purposive sampling method at 2 observation stations. Painted terrapin nests are found only at station 1. Nests were found in November 9 pieces, December 7 pieces, and January 6 pieces, for a total of 22 nests for 3 months. The number of eggs produced per hole is 11–27 eggs. Painted terrapin eggs are produced in November with 0 eggs, December with 11 eggs, and January with 97 eggs, for a total of 107 eggs for 3 months.

The Environment Characteristics Habitat of Sea Tuntong’s (Batagur borneoensis) on Conservation Areas in Aceh Tamiang Regency's Coastal Waters

One of the endemic turtle conservation areas is the sea turtle conservation area on the coast of Aceh Tamiang Regency, Aceh Province (Batagur borneoensis). This animal is categorized as an endangered animals. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) designated sea turtles as Critically Endangered (CE) in 1996. The distribution of sea turtles is limited because the beach type must be suitable for spawning and survival. The goal of this study was to determine the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of sea tuntong (Batagur borneonsis) habitat in a conservation area in Aceh Tamiang Regency. In this study, the descriptive method was used. The data collection process was completed. Data was gathered through direct observation in the field. Purposive sampling was used to identify observation stations. There are three research stations: Pusong Kapal (hatching hatchlings), Ujung Tamiang Beach (habitat for adult sea turtles), and Pusung Cium Beach (habitat for sea turtles) (nesting habitat). The study's findings revealed differences in physical, biological, and chemical characteristics at the three stations. It is possible to conclude that the water area off the coast of Aceh Tamiang Regency, Aceh Province, is suitable for sea turtle habitat (Batagur borneoensis)

Growth patterns of captive painted terrapins Batagur borneoensis in the Aceh Province, Indonesia

Abstract. Mawardi AL, Atmaja THW, Sarjani TM, Khalil M, Sarong MA, Yusriono. 2022. Growth patterns of captive painted terrapins Batagur borneoensis in the Aceh Province, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 4872-4878. Painted terrapin is one of the endemic animal species found only in Indonesia and Malaysia. These animals live in very wide waters, which include rivers, mangroves and coastal areas. The purpose of this study was to determine the growth pattern of Batagur borneoensis at the Marine Tuntong Education and Conservation Center, Satucita Lestari Indonesia Foundation, Aceh Province. The study used a survey method with data collection techniques by direct observation to the location of the captive B. borneoensis to obtain comprehensive data. The sample used in this study was the captive-bred B. borneoensis at the Marine Tuntong Education and Conservation Center Satucita Lestari Indonesia Foundation with different age variations, including 2 months, 2 years, 3 years and 4 years, with a total sample 3 individuals per age category. Parameters measured in this study included the total weight of B. borneoensis, carapace arch length and carapace arch width. In general, the growth pattern of B. borneoensis found in the education and conservation center at YSCLI is classified as negative allometric, this growth indicates that length growth is faster than overall body weight gain. When viewed based on the age difference, the growth pattern of B. borneoensis aged 2 months to 2 years is still classified as positive allometric, but when it is 3 to 4 years old, it only changes to negative allometric. It can be concluded that for the age of 2 years and under, the captive process of B. borneoensis is still suitable, but when it is over 2 years old, it is no longer suitable for captivity, considering that the animal's growth pattern is not balanced between carapace length and total body weight. It is recommended that if the animal is over 2 years old, it should be immediately released into its natural habitat in the wild so that it can live and develop naturally in order to preserve the aquatic biota.

A present and future assessment of the effectiveness of existing reserves in preserving three critically endangered freshwater turtles in Southeast Asia and South Asia

Tortoises and freshwater turtles are among the most threatened taxa of vertebrates in the world due to consumption, urban development, agriculture, and land and water pollution. About 50% of the currently recognised chelonian species are considered threatened with extinction according to the IUCN Red List. Asia is an epicentre for the turtle and tortoise extinction crisis, containing the highest diversity of threatened species. In this study, we used species distribution models (SDMs) to assess the effectiveness of existing protected areas across Southeast and South Asia for the conservation of three large critically endangered freshwater turtles (Batagur borneoensis, B. affinis, and Pelochelys cantorii). We derived the models based on selected bioclimatic variables at the sites of known species records. Our SDMs showed that Indonesia is of particular importance in prioritising conservation for these three species, containing the largest areas of suitable habitat within protected areas. However, when considering water surface coverage, Thailand has the highest proportion of suitable areas under protection. Our results suggest that the present cover of protected network reserves seems inadequate in terms of size and should be expanded to sustain populations of the three target species. Therefore, we identified priority areas and reserves critical for further field surveys to guide the potential discovery of novel populations. To investigate the effect of climate change, we also projected potential distributions onto ensembles of four IPCC story lines. As a result, we found larger extralimital areas of suitable environment for all three species, particularly northwards and inland. However, high degrees of uncertainty in climate conditions indicate few reserves may provide long term protection. Lastly, we review the threats and propose recommendations for conservation of these poorly known freshwater turtles.

TINJAUAN FIQH MUAMALAH TERHADAP PRAKTIK JUALBELI TELUR TUNTONG LAUT (BATAGUR BORNEONENSIS)

The sale and purchase of Tuntong Laut eggs that occurred in Pusung Kapal Village, Kec. Seruway is done for the use of ingredients for making srikaya jam. This sale and purchase is a violation of laws that have been set by the government and can cause damage to nature and is contrary to the principles of muamalah. The title of this research is “Review of Muamalah Fiqh Against the Practice of Selling and Buying Sea Tuntong Eggs (Batagur Borneonsis) in Pusung Kapal Village, Kec. Seruway” With the formulation of the problem is (1). How is the practice of buying and selling Tuntong Laut (Batagur borneoensis) eggs in Pusung Kapal Village, Kec. Seruway? (2) How is the Fiqh Muamalah review of the practice of buying and selling eggs of Sea Tuntung (Batagur Borneoensis) case study in Pusung Kapal Village, Kec. Seruway? Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that (1) The practice of buying and selling Tuntong Laut eggs is prohibited according to Fiqh Muamalah because the Rukuns and conditions of sale and purchase are not fulfilled, such as: the goods are not owned by themselves, but belong to the state whose species are protected. immediately when Ijab and Qabul or the goods are not in hand, and do not meet Sharia principles, such as bringing harm, destroying the ecosystem of protected animals and containing elements of gharar. (2) Buying and selling of Tuntong Laut eggs in Pusung Kapal Village, Kec. Seruway That there is a practice of buying and selling rare animals, in which the sale and purchase is not accompanied by a permit from the competent authority.

Evaluation of riparian vegetation diversity as a tuntong laut (Batagur borneoensis) habitat in River Tamiang, Aceh Tamiang, Aceh Province, Indonesia

This study evaluated the diversity of riparian vegetation as a habitat of tuntong laut (B. borneoensis) along the Tamiang River and Iyu River Aceh Tamiang, Aceh Province, Indonesia. This study was descriptive exploratory research using the Ex-Post Facto method. Five location sampling were determined by selected sampling. Observation of mangrove vegetation included the seedlings, saplings, and trees were done at each location with three replications by made sample plots (2x2 m for seedlings, 5x5 m for saplings, and 10x10 m for trees). The research results showed that total species of seedlings were 14 species, saplings 18 species, and trees seven species. The highest diversity index value (H`) of seedlings, saplings, and trees were 1.56, 2.52, and 1.44, respectively, which included in the low category and indicated the degraded of riparian vegetation in all of sampling location.

Traditional uses of herpetofauna practiced by local people in the island of Sumatra, Indonesia: Implications for conservation

Local people in Sumatra have long utilized herpetofauna to provide food, medicine, and other purposes. However, research related to wildlife utilization is still lacking. The objective of this paper was to provide an overview of the island-wide (i.e. Sumatra) traditional use of herpetofauna by the local people and analyze its implications for conservation. Published papers were collected and analyzed. From 11 papers, 22 wild-caught species (18 reptiles, 4 amphibians) were used by local people for their meat (water monitor, freshwater turtles, large-sized snakes), eggs (marine and freshwater turtles), or medicinal purposes (snakes, lizards, frogs; as skin-related remedies). Among them, 8 reptiles are listed in the IUCN Red List and CITES Appendices, including Batagur borneoensis (CR, Appendix II), Chelonia mydas (EN, Appendix I), Notochelys platynota (VU, Appendix II), Ophiophagus hannah (VU, Appendix II), Ortilia borneensis (EN, Appendix II). Additionally, 5 reptiles are protected by Indonesian law. Batagur borneoensis is also listed as a very high priority species for conservation by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. No amphibian is protected by law, listed in the CITES, nor IUCN Red List. Traditional uses of protected species and listed under the IUCN Red List need to be managed properly to ensure their sustainability.

The very low genetic variability on Aceh Tamiang’s (Indonesia) population of Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) inferred by cytochrome oxidase I (CO I) and D-loop (control region)

Abstract. Guntoro J, Wirdateti, Riyanto A. 2020. The very low genetic variability on Aceh Tamiang’s (Indonesia) population of Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) inferred by cytochrome oxidase I (CO I) and D-loop (control region). Biodiversitas 21: 2514-2520. Populations of Batagur borneoensis have been rapidly decreasing due to the harvesting of adults and eggs for food and the construction of beachfront property causing the loss of nesting areas. By the new Indonesian regulation, since 2018 this turtle listed in the protected animal. Meanwhile, IUCN placed as critically endangered which indicating a high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future (www.iucnredlist.org). We used cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and control region D-loop region to investigate intraspecific variations on Aceh Tamiang’s population of painted terrapin, Batagur borneoensis. DNA material was gathered from saliva collected from 90 juveniles in the reaching facility of Sukacita Lestari Indonesia Foundation which hatched from eggs collected from December 2015 to April 2016 from 30 nests on beach area at Aceh Tamiang. The population showed very low genetic variability (haplotype diversity, Hd = 0.457 based on COI and 0.405 based on D-loop; nucleotide diversity, π = 0.00089 based on COI and 0.00076 based on D-loop). So, we suggested that further study such as more exploration to find new wild populations and genetic study across wild populations should be done to reveal genetic variability and genetic structure which important to decide the conservation strategy. At the time for Aceh Tamiang's population, the ranching conservation program should be maintained at least to keep the successful hatchling from hunters and natural predators both during eggs laying and hatching.

Endoscopy gender determination and reproductive hormone profiles of Painted Terrapins (Batagur borneoensis) subjected to ex situ incubation.

Chelonian exhibit temperature dependent sex determination, and ex situ incubation of eggs in conservation hatcheries may render a gender bias. The gender of juvenile Painted terrapins (Batagur borneoensis) produced at a conservation hatchery in Malaysia was determined by endoscopy of the gonads. Circulating reproductive hormones (testosterone, progesterone and estradiol) were profiled for 31 juveniles and nine captive-reared non-breeding adult terrapins. Endoscopy revealed a gender bias of 96.8% (30/31) females. Testosterone levels in the juvenile females (2.49 ± 1.29) were significantly lower than that of the adult females (12.20 ± 4.29), and lower than values in the juvenile male (9.36) and adult males (27.60, 35.62). The progesterone levels in the juvenile females (107.12 ± 68.68) were significantly higher than that of the adult females (51.13 ± 24.67), but lower than values in the juvenile male (33.27) and adult males (3.43, 8.51). Estrogen levels were significantly lower in the juvenile females (1.57 ± 1.35) compared to the adult females (77.46 ± 53.45). Negative correlations were observed between levels of progesterone and testosterone, and progesterone and estrogen. A positive correlation was noted between estrogen and testosterone. The present study constitutes the first attempt to determine the gender and reproductive hormone profiles of juvenile Painted terrapins produced by ex situ incubation, and captive non-breeding adults. Endoscopy of the gonads is a useful techniques for gender determination among juvenile turtles, while the use of testosterone as a gender biomarker warrants further investigation.

Etnozoologi Masyarakat Pesisir Seruway Aceh Tamiang Dalam Konservasi Tungtong Laut (Batagur Borneoensis)

ABSTRACT Painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) is one of the reptiles found in the coastal area of Pusong Seruway Island, Aceh Tamiang Regency. Currently, the existence of wild population of painted terrapin is threatened to extinction due to factors of nature and community activities. The local government of Aceh Tamiang Regency has already protected painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) and listed it as protected species. This research is a descriptive exploratory survey to reveal the symptom and phenomenon of communities concerning their participation in the conservation of painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis). Result of research was based on survey conducted in three villages with samples of 100 respondents given questionnaire through purposive random sampling technique. Data of ethnic communities consisted of; Tamiang, Aceh, Javanese, Batak and Arabic. Ethnozoology of communities obtained value local knowledge of communities as a form of awareness on animal protection included; participation in the sea turtle hatchling release, reduction in the exploitation activity of utilizing painted terrapin eggs (Batagur borneoensis) as srikaya (food) and traditional medicine, willingness not to take or disturb the animal and if they find painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis), they will return the animal to its habitat or give it to the conservation team. A small part of the community joined in the assistance rescue group for painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis). Keywords: ethnozoology, conservation of painted terrapin (Batagur borneoensis).

Stakeholder Participation of Painted Terrapin Conservation in District Aceh Tamiang

Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis Schlegel and Muller 1845) conservation in the coastal area of Aceh Tamiang Regency faces difficulties because it involves many stakeholder. The objective of this study were to analyze stakeholder interest, influences and describe the relationship among stakeholder in the conservation of Batagur borneoensis at Aceh Tamiang District. The study was conducted in Aceh Tamiang District and respondents were selected using purposive sampling method. The data obtained using questionnaire, interview, and direct observation were analyzed with stakeholder clasification matrix, stakeholder interaction matrix and descriptive analysis. The results showed that there are twenty-seven stakeholder involved in the conservation of Batagur borneoensis which can be categorized as subjects, key players, context setters, and crowds. To achieve the management objectives of Batagur borneoensis conservation, stakeholder engagement needs to be improved through collaboration among key players, participation all key stakeholder, and community empowerment. Keywords: Batagur borneoensis, collaboration, conservation, stakeholder analysis

Stakeholder participation of Painted Terrapin conservation in District Aceh Tamiang.

Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis Schlegel and Muller 1845) conservation in the coastal area of Aceh Tamiang Regency faces difficulties because it involves many stakeholder. The objective of this study were to analyze stakeholder interest, influences and describe the relationship among stakeholder in the conservation of Batagur borneoensis at Aceh Tamiang District. The study was conducted in Aceh Tamiang District and respondents were selected using purposive sampling method. The data obtained using questionnaire, interview, and direct observation were analyzed with stakeholder clasification matrix, stakeholder interaction matrix and descriptive analysis. The results showed that there are twenty-seven stakeholder involved in the conservation of Batagur borneoensis which can be categorized as subjects, key players, context setters, and crowds. To achieve the management objectives of Batagur borneoensis conservation, stakeholder engagement needs to be improved through collaboration among key players, participation all key stakeholder, and community empowerment.

Development and characterization of thirty novel microsatellite markers for the critically endangered Myanmar Roofed Turtle, Batagur trivittata, and cross-amplification in the Painted River Terrapin, B. borneoensis, and the Southern River Terrapin, B. affinis, using paired-end Illumina shotgun sequencing

We isolated and characterized 30 microsatellite loci from the critically endangered Myanmar Roofed Turtle, Batagur trivittata. Loci were screened in 9 B. trivittata samples and in the congeners the Painted River Terrapin, Batagur borneoensis, with 22 of 30 amplifying, and the Southern River Terrapin, B. affinis, with 15 of 30 amplifying. In the B. trivittata samples, the number of alleles per locus ranged from 3 to 10 and the probability of identity values ranged from 0.031 to 0.354. These new loci will provide tools for captive management and reintroduction programs for B. trivittata and the other five species of Batagur, particularly B. affinis in Cambodia.

Effects of hypothalamic extract and steroids on the secretion of prolactin, growth hormone and luteinizing hormone by the pituitary gland of the terrapin (Chrysemys picta) in vitro.

* Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, U.S.A., Departments of †Pure and Applied Zoology and ‡Animal Physiology and Nutrition, The University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT and §Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, U.S.A. (Received 24 June 1977) Recent studies have shown that reptilian hypothalamic extract contains a prolactin releasing factor capable of acting on repitilian pituitary glands when incubated in vitro (Nicoll, Fiorindo, McKenee & Parsons, 1970; Hall, Chadwick & Callard, 1975b). It has also been suggested that steroids may influence the secretion of prolactin in reptiles (Callard, Doolittle, Banks & Chan, 1972). Müller, Sawano & Schally (1967) found evidence for a reptilian growth hormone (GH) releasing factor using a heterologous system. We have examined the control of the secretion of prolactin, GH and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland of the painted terrapin in vitro. Pituitary glands and hypothalami were removed from

A Mutant Red-Phase Wood Salamander (Plethodon cinereus) from New Hampshire

This is a report on several series of amphibians and reptiles, received from New Hampshire during the spring of 1945. The most interesting of these specimens were eight wood salamanders from Andover, Merrimack County: seven of the common red-backed phase described by Bishop (1943, Handbook of Salamanders, p. 234), none of the lead-backed or dark phase, and one of a new all red phase not mentioned by Bishop. The red mutant was typical of Plethodon cinereus in every way, except for lack of dark pigment on the sides and below. It was uniform light red from the lower flanks upward and light below. The collector of this specimen was Miss Katherine Gulick, who also sent from the Andover area: Desmognathus fuscus fuscus, dusky salamander; Eurycea bislineata bislineata, two-lined salamander; Triturus viridescens viridescens, eastern newt; Hyla crucifer, spring peeper; Rana palustris, pickerel frog; and Chrysemys picta picta, eastern painted terrapin. Additional New Hampshire records from 1945 collecting: young Hyla crucifer taken at Raymond, Rockingham County, by Robert A. Hellman; water stage Triturus viridescens viridescens found at Meredith, Belknap County, by Peter Lunt and the red eft land stage at Webster Lake in Merrimack County by Irene Wilson; and the milk snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum secured at Andover, Merrimack County, by Winslow Trueblood.

Mortality of Wildlife on a Texas Highway

Considerable interest has developed of late in the problem of wildlife mortality on our public highways (see Dickerson, L. M., the JOURNAL OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, 1939, vol. 3, p. 104). In an attempt to gain some measure of the losses on the highways of Texas, I kept daily records (except for July and August) from February 1, 1938, to January 31, 1939, of mammals run down by motorists on the six miles of concrete highway between College Station and Bryan in Brazos County. Traffic on this section of highway is heavier than average, increasing the hazard to wildlife, but this factor is compensated for in part by the relative scarcity of most kinds of mammals in this section of the state. I consider my data as probably slightly less than average for a similarly constructed six-mile section of highway in some other part in Texas, as, for example, the TransPecos region. On unimproved highways, of course, the losses would tend to be much less, for it is common knowledge that the rate of mortality to wildlife, and man as well, increases directly with the degree to which a highway is improved for rapid transit. Disregarding the months of July and August in which no data were recorded, the average monthly loss of mammals was 5, or nearly 10 per mile-year. If my data be nearly average for similar sections of fast highway in other parts of the state, the total number of mammals (not counting man) killed each year on the 15,675 miles of hard surfaced highways in Texas is 156,750. If w assume that a reduction of average speed on the highway from 50 m.p.h. to 30 m.p.h. will reduce highway mortality of wildlife from 10 a mile-year to, say, 4, the yearly loss on the 5,790 miles of graveled and unimproved roads in the State would amount to 23,160. Add this to the figure derived for the fast highways, and we get a total of 179,910. This figure is for mammals alone. No r cord was kept of the birds, reptiles, and amphibians run down by motorist , but I gained the impression that during the ten months of observation the loss of birdlife was only about onef fth that of mammals; reptiles, however, especially the painted terrapin (Terrapene ornata), fared much worse than did the mammals.

A New Pronocephalid Monostome from a Freshwater Turtle

While making collections of turtle parasites in the summer of 1926, several specimens of a very interesting monostome were collected from the western painted terrapin, Pseudemys elegans. Seven specimens were taken from the intestine on June 26 of that year, the host having been collected the same day from Blue River, near Connorville, Johnston County, Oklahoma. No other collections are recorded, although several other specimens of the host have been autopsied at various times since from the same locality. I have identified the parasites as belonging to the family Pronocephalidae Looss. This family is characteristically marine, with the great majority of the species described parasitic in the several species of marine turtles, and inhabiting various parts of the alimentary canal. So far as I have been able to determine from the literature, no previous records of freshwater species has been made. Anatomically the species presents several features of interest, especially pertaining to the excretory system. These features appear to justify a short description and discussion. Before proceeding further I wish to acknowledge the very helpful criticisms of Dr. Henry B. Ward, under whose direction this study has been made. The following generic diagnosis, which must be considered as tentative since only the single species described in this paper is known, clearly separates the worms from any previously described genus of the family. Indeed, the description is at variance with certain family characteristics as given by Looss; these will be discussed in a later section.