Ecologia do tracajá (Podocnemis unifilis) em uma lagoa urbana impactada no município de Parintins, Amazonas

Abstract

The yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) is a freshwater turtle widely distributed throughout the Amazon region and plays an important ecological role in aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed to analyze the basking,swimming, and resting behaviors of yellow-spotted river turtles in an urban lagoon, relating these behaviors to environmental characteristics and human presence. The research was conducted through direct observation of individuals and the environmental conditions of the study area. The results showed that basking occurred mainly between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., while swimming was more frequent in the early morning and late afternoon. Resting behavior was observed during periods of lower human activity. Solid waste, extensive vegetation cover, and the presence of other species, such as caimans and herons, were also recorded. The study found that the turtles preferentially used quieter areas with greater vegetation cover, avoiding locations with intense human circulation. The results highlight the importance of conserving urban aquatic environments for maintaining local biodiversity.