 The spiny softshell turtle's scientific name is very descriptive of the animal.“Apalone” comes from the Greek word “apalos” meaning soft or tender, and “spinifera” is of Latin descent; “spina-“ referring to thorn or spine and “-ifer” meaning bearing.This species is a member of the family Trionychidae, and one of the most distinguishing features of members in this family is the presence of a leathery, moderately flexible carapace.