Its shell is entirely smooth. The Yangtze giant softshell turtle is a unique turtle in the world. Unlike its congeners, this turtle does not have a domed shell. She is completely flat. This species of giant tortoise lives on the banks of the Yangtze River (Central China) and can live for almost a century. Due to the gradual destruction of its habitat, the Yangtze giant softshell turtle is a critically endangered species.