The family Dermatemydidae, belonging to the order Testudines (turtles), is a small group of freshwater turtles commonly known as river turtles. This family is represented today by a single extant species, Dermatemys mawii, found primarily in rivers and wetlands of Central America, particularly in Mexico and Belize. Dermatemydids are large, herbivorous turtles with smooth, flattened shells and strong, paddle-like limbs adapted for aquatic life. They are primarily nocturnal feeders, consuming a variety of aquatic plants, and play an important role in maintaining the health of their freshwater ecosystems. Due to overharvesting and habitat loss, they are considered critically endangered and are the focus of conservation efforts in their native range.