The pig-nosed turtle is distributed in northern Australia, southern Irian Jaya and southern New Guinea. Its distribution is narrow and remote. Typical habitats include rivers, estuaries, lagoons, lakes, swamps and ponds. Most pig-nosed turtles are found in freshwater waters at depths greater than six feet, with sand and gravel bottoms and silt cover, and these waters are bordered by lush forests. Rarely, pig-nosed turtles are found in saltwater lagoons.
The pig-nosed turtle is a highly aquatic freshwater turtle that can live in deep water for a long time. It rarely goes ashore outside of laying eggs, so it is a master swimmer among turtles. Its swimming style is vigorous and elegant, and its unique skill is swimming backwards. Adult pig-nosed turtles are very aggressive by nature. If two or more pig-nosed turtles are kept together and there is not enough hiding place, they will fight with each other and leave numerous scars on each other's carapace and skin.
The suitable temperature of the water environment for pig-nosed turtles is 25~31°C.
