alligator snapping turtle
A large freshwater turtle native to North America, known for its powerful bite and worm-like lure on its tongue.
The alligator snapping turtle lives in rivers and lakes in North America.
I saw a large alligator snapping turtle at the zoo.
Katakana spelling is standard for this animal name.
Kanji spelling is rare; the word is usually written in kana.
Compound of 鰐 (wani, 'alligator/crocodile') and 亀 (kame, 'turtle'), referring to its alligator-like appearance and snapping behavior. The exact origin of the name is uncertain.