Abstract

• Species diversity, population and exploitation of turtles and tortoises in Myeik area, Tanintharyi region were observed in the study work. The study was conducted in Myeik area, Tanintharyi Region from May 2015 to October 2016. The research designed was based on field study. The field work was conducted three times in the study period, in each study site. A total of 11 species were recorded representing two tortoise species and nine freshwater turtle species in Myeik area. Among the recorded species 18 of soft shell and 82 of hard shell were observed. The values of diversity index for three study sites indicated that the condition of these sites may be perfect habitat for the turtle species. During investigation, illegal shell trade was encountered in Tanintharyi and Palaw Township.