Common Name
smooth softshell

Iowa Range
along Mississippi River and central to southeast Iowa

Habitat
sandy or mud-bottomed moderate to large rivers

Description
The smooth softshell is covered in a leathery skin rather than horny scutes. The carapace is olive to orange-brown and covered in dark dots and spots. The carapace also lacks any spines or projections. This is the only softshell to lack ridged nostrils. The feet are also not strongly streaked or spotted.