It may grow 40cm or more in length. It is mainly dark brown to black in color and semiaquatic. This turtle inhabits various fresh waters, such as rivers, streams, swamps, lakes and marshes. When on land, it spends much of its time hidden under shrubbery. They are omnivorous, eating mostly insects and plants.
Hatchlings are primarily carnivorous and become omnivorous as adults.
This animal makes an exceptionally good pet, becoming extremely tame and confiding.