In a coastal Australian river, the Manning River helmeted turtle (Myuchelys purvisi) is fighting for its place. The species has been called one of the country's most striking freshwater turtles, but it now shares the water with another turtle that should not be there.
The intruder is also a native turtle, but not to this river. Its presence puts pressure on the Manning River helmeted turtle as the two compete for resources in the same habitat. The situation highlights how moving native species beyond their natural range can still disrupt local ecosystems.
Conservation efforts will need to account for both turtles, since removing or managing the non-local species may be necessary to give the helmeted turtle a chance. The outcome remains uncertain as researchers study how the two populations interact.