Tri*on"yx (?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. (see Tri-) + a claw.] Zool.

A genus of fresh-water or river turtles which have the shell imperfectly developed and covered with a soft leathery skin. They are noted for their agility and rapacity. Called also soft tortoise, soft-shell tortoise, and mud turtle.

⇒ The common American species (Trionyx, ∨ Aspidonectus, ferox) becomes over a foot in length and is very voracious. Similar species are found in Asia and Africa.

 

© Webster 1913.

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