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Aldabra tortoise
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Reptiles |
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Aldabra Islands in the Indian ocean |
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testudinidae |
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250 kg |
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Mangroves, swamps, prairies, bushes |
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Grass, plants and foliages |
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Incubation:120 to 130 days |
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9 to 25 eggs |
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Dogs, rats and wild boar prey on young |
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Endangered (Appendix ll of CITES) |
This is the largest tortoise, it can weigh up to 255 kg!
The Aldabra Tortoise (Geochelone gigantea) lives on the Aldabra Islands in the Indian Ocean. This is the largest tortoise species, it can measure up to 122 cm (4 feet) and weigh up to 255 kg (562 lbs)! The colour of the carapace and the skin varies from grey to black. The front side of the carapace is curved upward, and is unique to this species. The large tubular feet are adapted for walking and for supporting an enormous weight. It has a very long neck with a small head enabling it to go get the vegetation at a height of up to one meter (3 feet). The sight and smell are good enabling it to find its food. We can find the Aldabra Tortoise in varied habitats. The Islands are covered with mangroves, swamps, prairies, sand dunes and bushes. They regroup most often in open spaces close to water where they can cool off and burry in the mud. This herbivorous turtle feeds on leaves and grasses. It has a calm disposition and does not interact much with other from its species except during the reproduction period. This reptile can live more than 100 years old! A female can lay between 9 and 25 eggs which will hatch after 120 and 130 days. It lays its eggs inside a nest that it has dug in the soft sand or earth. An adult has no natural predators. The eggs or young can be preyed upon by dogs, rats and wild boars. The Aldabra Tortoise has been heavily hunted by humans in the 19th Century. Luckily, it has survived because of protected Sanctuaries and because of the geographic isolation of the Aldabra Islands. This species is abundant, and it is placed in the Appendix II.