Actinemys marmorata Genome sequencing and assembly. Actinemys marmorata

The Pacific pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata or Emys marmorata), is a small to medium-sized turtle of the family Emydidae. It is limited to the west coast of the United States of America and Mexico, ranging from western Washington state to northern Baja California. In May 2002, the Canadian Species at Risk Act listed the Pacific pond turtle as being extirpated in Canada. Due to habitat destruction, and the introduction of the invasive Red-eared slider into it's range, this species is currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. With the removal of ponds, wetlands, and contamination of other water sources, this species is vulnerable and at risk of becoming extinct without the continuing efforts of reintroducing these turtles to their native range.