Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa
A species of Aldabrachelys Scientific name : Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa Genus : Aldabrachelys
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa, A species of Aldabrachelys
Scientific name: Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa
Genus: Aldabrachelys
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Jerzy Strzelecki , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa is lauded for its remarkable longevity and characteristic solitary lifestyle. Known for its herbivorous diet, it plays a vital role in maintaining terrestrial plant diversity by consuming and dispersing seeds. Fascinatingly, aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa deploys unique survival strategy where it regulates temperature and moisture levels by wallowing in mud during hot periods, exemplifying fine adaptation to its ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
80-120 years
Diet
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa is primarily herbivorous, favouring a diet of vegetation unique to its native habitat. This includes grasses, leaves, fruits and the local flora like the Aldabra Fig. The turtle is particularly fond of roaming about in pursuit of succulent plant material, often favoring high-fiber, low-protein sources. Occasionally, it may also consume carrion.
Appearance
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa is a massive, land-dwelling turtle with a dome-shaped shell. Covered in leathery, wrinkled skin, its color varies from dark grey to black. The carapace, slightly lightened with age, displays growth rings. The turtle houses a small head often tinged yellow or brown. Both the genders appear similar but females tend to be smaller. It's noteworthy that their legs are elephantine and strong, ending in nail-bearing stumps, aiding in their slow locomotion.
Behavior
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa is a solitary and territorial species, with males typically controlling large tracts of land. It displays crepuscular eating habits, primarily foraging during dawn and dusk for low-lying vegetation. Notably, during extreme heat, aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa may dig burrows or find shade to avoid sun exposure, exhibiting considerable adaptation to its environment.
Photo By Jerzy Strzelecki , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Tortoises Genus
Aldabrachelys Species
Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa