Differentiating Turtle and Tortoise

April 24, 2005

Tortoises are very unique in many ways. Tortoises are defined as a mainland reptile species. There are very few chelonian species that require living in aquatic environments. Turtles seem to be a bit of both; mainly defined as fully aquatic and an omnivorous species - eating the meat of other species, whether fish, crickets, worms, or snails, while being a bit vegetation. Tortoises, on the other hand, are herbivorous in that they only eat vegetation. Although protein is required in their diet, chelonian species need to have no more than 2-4 percent protein in a single day. Some chelonian species have been known to eat snails, crickets, and even dog and cat food, which is very unhealthy towards their growth.

Differentiating the two is quite easy, as most chelonian species are thought of as being the huge Galapagos tortoises or the larger Aldabra tortoises, while turtles are little green, water dwelling creatures. For most, that is correct, but there are main differentials toward their divinity. Herbivorous and omnivorous have key differences. Although tortoises and turtles resemble many of the same likenesses such as having shells and a beak, the main population of tortoises have back elephontus feet that resemble the entire leg and foot of elephants. Turtles, mainly the aquatic species, have webbing inbetween their toes to assist them getting through sluggish water. Tortoises have more of a domed carapace (shell) than that of the more aerodynamic flattened carapace of the turtle that once again assists in its mobility through the water.

Posted on April 24, 2005 in | Link | Comments (1)

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Posted by: Molly at December 15, 2005 09:14 PM

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