Which turtle is known for its flattened head and snorkel-like snout?

The turtle known for its flattened head and snorkel-like snout is the mata mata. Its broad, triangular head and long, tubular snout give it one of the strangest profiles among living turtles.

The mata mata is an aquatic South American turtle that spends much of its time motionless in shallow, slow-moving water. Its rough shell, skin flaps, tubercles and ridges help it resemble bark, dead leaves or submerged debris. This camouflage lets it wait for prey rather than chase it.

The snout is not a literal breathing tube, but its shape allows the turtle to raise only the tip above the water while the rest of its body remains submerged. When prey approaches, the mata mata rapidly opens its mouth and creates suction, pulling in fish and other small aquatic animals.

It is often confused with snapping turtles because both have rugged appearances, but they are unrelated in appearance and feeding style. The mata mata is especially distinctive for its flattened head, skin-covered neck and narrow, pointed snout.