Xilin “Three Treasures”

Xilin “Three Treasures”

　　Xilin “Three Treasures”

　　The horned turtle, the mountain terrapin, and the softshell turtle produced in Xilin County are known as the “Three Treasures of Xilin.” All three belong to the reptile family of turtles. The horned turtle, commonly known as the big-headed turtle, has a triangular head and a beak-like mouth resembling that of an eagle; the mountain terrapin, also called the mountain turtle, is dark brown in color with many raised bumps on its back, and its living habits are similar to those of the horned turtle; the softshell turtle, scientifically known as the Chinese softshell turtle, is also called the pond turtle or the mud turtle. It is dark grass green in color, with a smooth back, and typically lives in rivers, streams, ponds, or paddy fields. The meat of the “Three Treasures” is rich in protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, iron, carbohydrates, and other nutrients that help strengthen the body. In particular, the horned turtle is considered the most valuable of the three. Its entire body is precious — the plastron, the feet, the oil, the liver, the gallbladder, and even the eggs are all regarded as valuable medicinal ingredients, used to treat asthma, bronchitis, lung diseases, and more. The “Three Treasures” are also famous as premium mountain delicacies, often served to honored guests.