The family Emydidae, belonging to the order Testudines (turtles), comprises primarily freshwater turtles commonly referred to as pond and box turtles. Members of this family are characterized by a hard, domed shell, webbed feet adapted for swimming, and omnivorous diets that include aquatic vegetation, invertebrates, and small fish. Emydids are widely distributed across North America, Europe, and parts of Central and South America, inhabiting ponds, rivers, marshes, and other freshwater environments. Many species exhibit seasonal activity patterns, including basking and hibernation, and some, like box turtles, are capable of completely closing their shells for protection. They play an important role in aquatic ecosystems as both predators and prey, contributing to the balance of invertebrate populations and serving as indicators of wetland health.