The family Trionychidae, commonly known as softshell turtles, belongs to the order Testudines. These freshwater turtles are distinguished by their leathery, flexible shells, elongated snouts, and webbed feet, which make them highly adapted for an aquatic lifestyle. Softshell turtles are found across Asia, Africa, and North America, inhabiting rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are mostly carnivorous, feeding on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, and are known for their impressive speed both in water and on land. Many species can bury themselves in sand or mud for camouflage and ambush hunting, and several are considered vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and overexploitation.