Turtles

Turtles are slow-moving animals with a hard shell that protects their body, flippers or legs, and a long lifespan.
According to the IUCN, Turtles are reptiles belonging to the order Testudines, characterized by a shell that consists of a carapace (dorsal) and plastron (ventral).
The Red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a common pet turtle.
The turtle’s shell is made up of bony plates called scutes, which are connected to the vertebrae and ribcage.
There are over 300 species of turtles, including sea turtles, land turtles, and freshwater turtles, ranging in size from the small Bog Turtle to the large Leatherback Sea Turtle.
Turtles are omnivores, feeding on plants, insects, and small animals, depending on the species.
Many turtle species are threatened or endangered due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the pet trade.
There are seven main types of turtles:
- Mud and musk turtles
- Pond and marsh turtles
- Sea turtles
- Side-necked turtles
- Snapping turtles
- Soft-shelled turtles and
- Tortoises

Interesting Facts about Turtles

Turtles have been on Earth for over 200 million years, long before humans.
They are found almost everywhere in the world except Antarctica.
Terrapins are turtles that live in or near freshwater.
The largest turtle that ever existed was the Archelon, which could reach up to 15 meters (49 feet) in length.
Turtles have a remarkable ability to survive without food or water for long periods, up to several years in some cases.

June 22, 2024:
- “Scientists Discover New Species of Turtle in the Amazon Rainforest”
- A team of researchers has identified a new species of freshwater turtle in the Amazon basin, highlighting the importance of preserving this biodiversity hotspot. (Source: National Geographic).