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:
- Radiated and high-domed carapace – lines radiating from the center of the dark shell plate.
- A blunt head.
- Elephantine feet. Almost as same as Star Tortoise but a larger size and different shell pattern design.
Distribution
- The point of origin is the exotic island of Madagascar.
- It can be located in most southern and southwestern parts of Madagascar, Mauritius & Reunion.
Breeding
- When the male tortoise reaches 31 cm, and the female tortoise reaches a few cm longer.
- Normally males will fight during the breeding season to get their 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 kg).
Life Span
- Up to 50 years.
Diet
- Herbivore.
- Fruits, succulent plants, flowers, and grasses.
- Their favorite food is Opuntia cactus.
- A 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 parts of Madagascar.
- Distributed nearby of the island of Reunion.