Maximum male body size in the Florida Softshell Turtle, Apalone ferox (Schneider, 1783), from the Wekiva River system, Florida, USA

Abstract

The Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox) is a widespread freshwater turtle endemic to the southeastern United States. While females are well-documented to reach large body sizes, published records of maximum male size have remained comparatively modest, with the largest previously reported male measuring 324 mm in straight-line carapace length (CL). Here we document an exceptional series of large male A. ferox from Wekiwa Springs State Park and Rock Springs Run State Preserve, Florida. Across long-term monitoring (2007–2025), we recorded 16 males exceeding the previously published maximum size, with the largest male reaching a CL of 468 mm. This represents an increase of more than 100 mm relative to the heretofore recognized maximum for the species. We discuss potential ecological and environmental factors contributing to the presence of exceptionally large males within this protected, thermally stable, and resource-abundant spring system.