 Spiny softshell turtle

The spiny softshell turtle ("Apalone spinifera") is a species of softshell turtle, one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America.Both the common name, spiny softshell, and the specific name, "spinifera" (spine-bearing), refer to the spiny, cone-like projections on the leading edge of the carapace, which are not scutes (scales).