It is endemic to Africa : in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, and Zambia.

The other two are Stink Pot Musk and Muhlenberg's Bog Turtles.

All 3 species barely reach 4 inches as full grown adults.

Like many of the world's chelonians, Pelusios castaneus has the potential to live a long life.

Reports typically suggest more than 50 years in captivity for this species.