Why is this animal unusual?
It doesn’t bite or chase. When a fish comes close, the mata mata suddenly opens its enormous mouth and expands its throat, and the fish is sucked in with a rush of water. Then it spits out the water and swallows the fish whole.
Why does it look like that?
Every bump and flap breaks up its outline. Algae grows on the shell to complete the disguise.
Strangest biological feature
Those loose flaps of skin on its head and neck. They’re packed with nerves that feel the tiniest movement in the water, making up for very poor eyesight.
Why is it strange?
It’s a turtle that barely swims. It walks along the bottom and breathes by stretching its snorkel nose up to the surface.
Interesting behavioral facts
Mata matas have been seen slowly herding fish into shallow corners before striking.
Records held
In 2020 scientists discovered that the mata mata is really two species – one in the Amazon, one in the Orinoco.
