Shell shape does not accurately predict self-righting ability in hatchling freshwater turtles

The different degrees of hydrodynamic shell shape in freshwater turtles likely represent an evolutionary trade-off between adaptation to an aquatic lifestyle and the movement capabilities of a larger and more rounded shell. Trade-offs often result in compromises, and this is particularly true when these turtles must self-right to avoid the negative effects of inverting. With flatter carapaces aquatic turtles, theoretically, must invest more biomechanical effort than their terrestrial counterparts with their more rounded carapaces, to achieve successful and timely self-righting. This places the hatchlings of freshwater species in a precarious position; more prone to inversion and predation than adults and with shells seemingly maladapted to the act of self-righting. Here, we examine the self-righting performance in three morphologically distinct freshwater turtle species (Apalone spinifera, Chelydra serpentina and Trachemys scripta scripta) that inhabit similar environmental niches. We d..., , , # Shell shape does not accurately predict self-righting ability in hatchling freshwater turtles

[https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.05qfttf92](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.05qfttf92)

The raw data files (.csv) containing time and filtered force data that was used to calculate the biomechanical costs of self-righting in three freshwater hatchling turtle species *Apalone spinifera* (spiny softshell turtle), *Chelydra serpentina* (common snapping turtle) and *Trachemys scripta scripta* (yellow-bellied slider).

## Description of the data and file structure

Each .csv file follows the same structure:

**Columns AB rows 1 to 8:**
Here you will find filename (row 1), mass and morphometric data (rows 2-5) and self-righting timings (row 6-8)

**Columns AB rows 10 to 12:**
Row 10 is the kinetic-energy equivalent (KEE) calculated for the self-righting event
Row 11 is the power-output equivalent (PEE) calculated for the self righting event
Row 12 is the height-change equivalent (HE) calculated for th...