noun
Japanese pond turtle; turtle of genus Mauremys
Refers to turtles of the genus Mauremys, especially the native Japanese pond turtle (Mauremys japonica). Often written in katakana as イシガメ.
イシガメは日本の池や川で見られる。
The Japanese pond turtle can be seen in ponds and rivers in Japan.
イシガメの甲羅は比較的平らだ。
The shell of the Japanese pond turtle is relatively flat.
クサガメ (Chinese pond turtle) is a different species often confused with イシガメ; クサガメ has a more domed shell and a distinct yellow stripe behind the eye.
The name イシガメ literally means 'stone turtle', likely from the appearance of its shell. The exact origin is uncertain.