R. Chirat et al., “Mechanical basis of morphogenesis and convergent evolution of spiny seashells,” PNAS, 110:6015-20, 2013. The spines adorning the shells of marine mollusks have evolved repeatedly ...

A spiny softshell turtle’s head emerges from a shallow pool of water. Spiny softshell turtles lay eggs in Missouri this week on sand- and gravel bars along streams and ponds. Take a canoe or kayak out ...

In 2018 Texas Parks and Wildlife issued a total ban on commercial hunting of the spiny softshell and three other turtle species. Today the reptiles are thriving across the state’s rivers, lakes ...