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What are the Different Types of Turtle Species?

C. K. Lanz
C. K. Lanz

A turtle is a reptile that can live either on land or in the water and are distinguished from other reptiles by its bony shells. There are more than 400 known turtle species in the world that are typically divided into several different categories based on the type of neck and the primary habitat. Turtle species can be classified as side necked Pleurodiras or hidden necked Cryptodiras. Additionally, turtle species are categorized as semi terrestrial (land and water dwelling) or aquatic (water dwelling). Aquatic turtles live either in fresh or salt water. Small turtles, particularity Russian tortoises and Red-eared sliders, are commonly kept as pets in the United States.

The difference between the Pleurodira and Cryptodira turtle species involves how the reptile defends itself. A Pleurodira turtles will move its neck and head to one side of its bodies, hiding under the outer lip of their shells. In contrast, a Cryptodira turtle will retract its head and neck back into its shell when threatened. Pleurodira turtles are less common and are found in Australia, South America and regions of Africa. Crytodira turtles include pig-nosed turtles, river turtles, pond turtles, tortoises, softshell turtles and leatherback turtles among other species.

A sea turtle swimming.
A sea turtle swimming.

Terrestrial turtle species live both on land and in the water. These turtles generally prefer marsh and swamp land with easy access to mud and water. Box turtles are a common terrestrial turtle species that have dark domed shells and are omnivorous. These turtles live in mossy areas, can grow to around 6 inches long (15 cm), are territorial and hibernate in the winter. Mud turtles are semi terrestrial and inhabit sandy and muddy terrain where they eat insects and tadpoles.

A terrestrial turtle.
A terrestrial turtle.

Aquatic turtle species live in fresh or salt water environments. The various species of slider turtles live in swamps with a lot of vegetation and in small ponds where they dig in mud. Sliders will eat vegetables such as lettuce as well as small fish. Painted turtles boast red or yellow stripes and can grow to over 10 inches long (25 cm). Like slider turtles, painted turtles are omnivorous and will eat lettuce, fish and even chicken. Painted turtles prefer to sleep in the water, but will occasionally sun on a rock or a log.

There are more than 400 known turtle species.
There are more than 400 known turtle species.

Sea turtles live in all oceans with the exception of the Arctic. Although they breathe air, sea turtles prefer to remain fully submerged in water and are solitary except when breeding. Some sea turtles, such as the black sea turtle, eat a vegetarian diet while the leatherback is carnivorous and eats jellyfish and other small animals with soft bodies. Sea turtles generally migrate thousands of miles each year and can live to be 80 years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many species of turtles are there worldwide?

There are over 350 species of turtles across the globe, according to the Turtle Conservation Coalition. These species are divided into two main groups: marine turtles, which live in the oceans, and freshwater turtles, which inhabit rivers, lakes, and ponds, including the semi-aquatic terrapins and the exclusively land-dwelling tortoises.

What are the most common types of sea turtles?

The most common types of sea turtles include the Leatherback, Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, Kemp's Ridley, and the Flatback. Each species is unique in its size, diet, and habitat preferences. For instance, the Leatherback is the largest and can dive deeper than any other turtle, while the Kemp's Ridley is known for its mass nesting events called arribadas.

Can you identify some common freshwater turtle species?

Common freshwater turtle species include the Red-eared Slider, which is popular in the pet trade, the Painted Turtle, known for its colorful markings, and the Snapping Turtle, recognized for its powerful bite. The Spotted Turtle and the Diamondback Terrapin are also well-known species that thrive in freshwater environments.

What distinguishes tortoises from other turtles?

Tortoises are a distinct group of land-dwelling turtles characterized by their domed shells and sturdy, elephantine legs. Unlike their aquatic relatives, tortoises have a diet primarily consisting of vegetation and can live exceptionally long lives, with some species like the Galápagos tortoise reaching over 100 years of age in the wild.

Are there any turtle species that are particularly endangered?

Many turtle species are currently endangered due to habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal pet trade. The Hawksbill Turtle is critically endangered, largely because of the demand for its beautiful shell. The Kemp's Ridley Turtle is also critically endangered, suffering from egg collection and bycatch in fishing gear.

What conservation efforts are in place to protect turtle species?

Conservation efforts to protect turtles include habitat protection, legal enforcement against poaching and illegal trade, and initiatives like turtle excluder devices (TEDs) in fishing nets to prevent bycatch. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and the Sea Turtle Conservancy are actively involved in global conservation and research efforts to ensure the survival of these ancient reptiles.

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    • A sea turtle swimming.
      A sea turtle swimming.
    • A terrestrial turtle.
      A terrestrial turtle.
    • There are more than 400 known turtle species.
      By: abhbah05
      There are more than 400 known turtle species.