The smooth softshell is listed as a Species of Special Concern in Minnesota. This status is due to a lack of records in the past.
Males reach only half that length.
Softshells are most easily recognized by the appearance of their carapace. It does not have the the bony scutes of our other turtles. Instead, it is flat and leathery with very flexible edges. It very much resembles a pancake. These turtles differ from the very similar spiny softshells by having a completely smooth carapace.