trionyx

CIDE DICTIONARY

trionyx, n. [NL., fr. Gr. (see Tri-) + a claw.].

 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.  [1913 Webster]
" The common American species (Trionyx ferox syn. Aspidonectus ferox) becomes over a foot in length and is very voracious. Similar species are found in Asia and Africa."  [1913 Webster]