What kind of animal is the beautifully patterned Radiated Tortoise? We will explain its characteristics, personality, ecology, and habitat. It is a type of land turtle that is distributed in the southern part of Madagascar, and not many people may have seen a wild turtle. Unfortunately, it is designated as an endangered species.
What is a Radiated Turtle? Basic Stats
The Radiated Tortoise is a turtle classified in the order Testudins, family Testudinidae, genus Testudinidae. Its scientific name is Astrochelys radiata, and its English name is Radiated Tortoise. Its carapace length is 40cm and its weight is 13-16kg. The list of information is as follows.
| Japanese（和名） | ホウシャガメ 放射亀 |
| English（英名） | Radiated tortoise Sokake |
| scientific name(学名) | Geochelone elegans |
| classification（分類） | Reptilia、 Testudines、 Testudinidae、Butagur 爬虫綱、カメ目、リクガメ科、マダガスカルリクガメ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | CRITICALLY ENDANGERED |
| Length（体長） | 40cm |
| Weight（体重） | 13～16kg |
Habitat
The Radiated Tortoise is found in Madagascar.
What are their characteristics? What kind of creature are they?
The Radiated Tortoise is a land turtle found in the southern part of Madagascar, and they never go into water. The carapace has a radial pattern of dark yellow lines, and the carapace is raised in a dome shape. Males are slightly larger than females, and their carapace is black or dark brown, while the primary carapace is yellow or orange. They live in flat grasslands.
What is their personality like?
Radiated Tortoises are docile by nature and get along well with people. For this reason, they are very suitable animals for keeping. However, their long lifespan may be a problem.
What is their ecology like?
Radiated Tortoises are almost entirely herbivorous, eating mainly herbs, but also leaves, flowers, and fruits. They reproduce oviparously. Males often fight fiercely before mating, clashing their shells against each other. Females lay 1-5 eggs at a time, up to three times a year. They are said to live for over 150 years.
Do they have any natural enemies?
The Radiated Tortoise has no significant natural enemies.
Is the Radiated Turtle an Endangered Species?
The Radiated Turtle is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and international trade is restricted. Not only has its habitat been reduced due to recent development, but it has also been over-hunted as a pet, which has become a problem.
Can the Radiated Turtle be kept as a pet?
The Radiated Turtle can be kept as a pet. The following items are necessary for keeping a turtle. Small specimens are registered and sold as new arrivals, and there are many adoption requests, so check them out. Pay attention to the type of food and cage. They also have a long lifespan, so take that into consideration. Check the food and insulation method. There are many products available in shops, and it is easy to purchase supplies such as food, cases, and lights.
Cage
Depending on the size of the shell and the growth rate, a cage with a width of about 60 cm is required at the shop. We recommend using a reptile cage made of glass, acrylic, or plastic.
Flooring
There are various types of flooring categories, from large to small. There are various types, such as Akadama soil, coconut shells, and artificial turf. Sometimes they are sold at a low price during campaigns.
Heater
If necessary, prepare an air conditioner or heating appliance to make sure your turtle is comfortable. There are panel heaters, spot lamps, and basking lights.
Thermo-hygrometer
When raising amphibious turtles, it is very important to control the temperature and humidity. It is best to keep the temperature at around 30 degrees.
Lighting
Turtles are animals that maintain their health by producing vitamin D3 in their bodies, which promotes calcium absorption, by exposing them to strong ultraviolet rays in a day. For this reason, lighting is essential. There are incandescent and fluorescent tube types, and it is best to choose one that suits the cage. Use the sunlight hours as a guide for lighting.
Shelter
Turtles are living creatures, so it is a good idea to have a shelter as a point to create a place where they can escape indoors. Make sure to install it properly so as not to cause them too much stress.
Water dish
A water dish is also essential. Wash the water bowl every day and provide fresh water.
Pet Food
Turtles are herbivorous and their food consists mainly of small vegetables and fruits, with some also eating mustard spinach and mushrooms. Some turtles eat wild plants instead of vegetables. Give them fruits such as bananas, watermelons, apples, strawberries, kiwis, and mangoes as snacks. Some people also give supplements as a reference. It is a good idea to start by offering commercially available products. These contain all the nutrients that living creatures need.
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