Scientific Name
- The scientific name of Radiated Tortoise is Geochelone radiata.
- It is also known as Testudo radiata or Asterochelys radiata
Description
- Also known as Radiator
- CITES listing: Class I (01/07/1975)
- Radiated Tortoise has the following characteristics:
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- Radiated and hig-domed carapace – lines radiating from the center of the dark shell plate
- A blunt head
- Elephantine feetAlmost as same as Star Tortoise but larger size and different shell pattern design
Distribution
- Point of origin is exotic island of Madagascar
- Can be located at most southern and southwestern part of Madagascar, Mauritius & Reunion
Breeding
- When male tortoise reaches 31 cm, and female tortoise reaches few cm longer
- Normally male will fight during breeding season to get its partner
Nesting
- 3 to 12 spherical brittle-shelled eggs per nest
- Incubation is from 5 to 8 months
- Juveniles are between 3 to 4 cm upon hatching
Size
- Length up to 16 inches (42 cm) or weight up to 35 pounds (16 kgs)
Life Span
- Up to 50 years
Diet
- Herbivore
- Fruits, succulent plants, flowers, and grasses
- Favourite food is Opuntia cactus
- Mixture of kale, chicory, and collard greens is also acceptable
Tortoise Habitat and Vivarium Housing
- These tortoises are found naturally in the most southern and southwestern part of Madagascar
- Distributed nearby of island of Reunion