The diet of Pseudemydura umbrina
Pseudemydura umbrina is carnivorous and eats only live food such as insect larvae, small crustaceans and small tadpoles. As the swamps warm in spring and swamp life becomes plentiful, the tortoises' food intake increases and fat supplies are laid down for the forthcoming summer. Feeding occurs only when water temperature is equal to or above 14°C and below 28°C. Due to food being available for only a short time each year and the presence of aestivation period, growth of the species is slow. (Burbidge and Kuchling, 1994)
Apart from what is written above, the information on Pseudemydura umbrina diet is very limited. The authors hope to get some more information from Dr Kuchling and possibly other people who have had the privilege to work with this peculiar species. The Perth Zoo is going to provide us with information on diet of their P. umbrina captive specimens.