General Information About Turtles

May 25, 2025

General Characteristics of Turtles

Turtles, Testudines or Chelonian It is a group of living beings belonging to the order. Worldwide in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems live More than 300 species of turtles Some of the basic features that distinguish turtles from other reptiles are:

1. Shell Structure

The most striking feature of turtles These are hard shells . This shell, from the spine and ribs It has a bony structure consisting of: The shell, in two main parts occurs:

Carapace: The turtle's is the upper crust and consists of a bony or keratinous layer.
Plastron: The turtle's is the lower shell and protects the abdominal area.

This shell is for turtles defense mechanism and also acts as internal organs protects them and ensures their survival.

2. Movement and Metabolism

Turtles usually slow moving known as animals. The main reason for this is low metabolic rates And are the characteristics of muscle structures . However, sea turtles , especially in water pretty fast can move and long distances they can fold.

3. They are long-lasting

Turtles, It is one of the longest-living species in the animal kingdom . For example, Galápagos tortoises have been around for more than 150 years can live. Sea turtles also usually 80-100 years has a lifespan in between.

4. Eating Habits

The diet of turtles varies depending on their species:

Herbivorous species: They only feed on plant foods. (For example, land turtles)
Carnivorous species: They feed on small fish, crustaceans and insects.
Omnivorous species: They consume both plant and animal foods. (Most freshwater turtles are in this group.)

Turtle Species and Habitats

Turtles are classified according to the ecosystem they live in. divided into three main groups :

1. Land Tortoises (Testudinidae)

Generally in arid and semiarid regions they live.
To strong legs And thick shells they have.
One of the most well-known types It is a Galapagos tortoise .

2. Freshwater Turtles

In lakes, rivers and swamps they live.
Semi-aquatic They live a long life and are good swimmers.
Example species: Red-eared slider turtle, Soft-shelled turtle.

3. Sea Turtles (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae)

In completely marine ecosystems they live.
They can swim long distances.
The most well-known types are: Green sea turtle, Leatherback turtle.

The Role of Turtles in the Ecosystem

Turtles, plays an important role in maintaining the balance of natural ecosystems :

Seed Propagation: Land turtles plant seeds ensures the continuity of forest ecosystems.
Protecting Marine Ecosystems: Sea Turtles harmful species such as jellyfish controls the population.
Contribution to Soil and Sand Ecosystem: They enrich coastal ecosystems thanks to their nesting areas.

Threats Facing Turtles

Turtles are at risk of extinction due to human-induced threats endangered Some of these threats are:

Habitat Loss: Deforestation, urbanization and expansion of agricultural lands are shrinking the habitat of tortoises.
Pollution: Plastic waste, in particular, poses a major threat to sea turtles. Turtles that mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and eat them can die.
Poaching: Illegal hunting for turtle eggs and shells seriously affects the populations of many species.
Climate Change: Global warming and rising sea levels threaten turtle nesting areas.

Turtle Conservation Efforts

There are many ways to protect turtles international and local There are initiatives:

Natural Protected Areas: Turtle nesting areas are protected.
Education and Awareness Campaigns: The public is made aware of the need to protect turtles.
Laws and Agreements: International agreements such as CITES prohibit the trade of turtles.
Turtle Rescue Centers: Injured turtles are treated and returned to their natural habitat.

Conclusion

Turtles are one of the oldest and most important creatures in nature. However, they have faced serious dangers due to human activities. Therefore, Protecting turtles is of critical importance not only for the sustainability of this species but also for the sustainability of ecosystems . The cooperation of nature lovers, NGOs and governments is necessary to secure the future of these unique creatures.

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