EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Alligator snapping turtles are the largest freshwater turtles in the world. An appendage on the alligator snapping turtle’s tongue resembles a worm, helping this ambush predator lure prey.

Detailed explanation-2: -Alligator snapping turtles have a soft, red, worm-shaped structure on the tongue that they use as a fishing lure. Sitting quietly on the muddy river bottom, concealed by their algae covered shell, they open their mouth and wait for prey to swim by.

Detailed explanation-3: -Observe how an Anglerfish uses its unique anatomy to imitate a wriggling worm to lure in prey. An anglerfish (order Lophiiformes) luring and capturing prey. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.

Detailed explanation-4: -The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is a large species of turtle in the family Chelydridae. The species is native to freshwater habitats in the United States. M. temminckii is one of the heaviest freshwater turtles in the world.

Detailed explanation-5: -Common snapping turtles have a flat, fleshy tongue while alligator snapping turtles have more of a worm-like tongue used to lure prey. Common snapping turtles have a large head and large eyes.