[1] Both species of the genus Staurotypus are native to Mexico and Central America.

S. salvinii is found primarily in Mexico, in the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas, but ranges south into Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize.

[citation needed] Species in the genus Staurotypus are typically much larger than other species of Kinosternidae, attaining a straight carapace length of up to 36 cm (14 in), with males being significantly smaller than females.

Typically brown, black, or green in color, with yellow undersides, the carapace is distinguished by three distinct ridges, or keels, which run the length.

[2] Like other musk turtle species, Staurotypus are omnivorous, eating various types of aquatic invertebrates, as well as fish and carrion.