Charles island giant tortoise
A species of Galápagos giant tortoises and allies Scientific name : Chelonoidis niger Genus : Galápagos giant tortoises and allies
Charles island giant tortoise, A species of Galápagos giant tortoises and allies
Scientific name: Chelonoidis niger
Genus: Galápagos giant tortoises and allies
Content
Description General Info
Photo By David Adam Kess , used under CC BY-SA 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Charles island giant tortoise is primarily herbivorous, relying upon a wide range of plant species as a food source, thereby playing an essential ecological role as a seed disperser. This animal exhibits unique age-related sexual dimorphism, with younger individuals being omnivorous and gradually transitioning to being fully herbivorous as adults. Extremely resilient, charles island giant tortoise can survive without food or water for extremely long periods.
General Info
Lifespan
100-170 years
Diet
Charles island giant tortoise significantly subsists on a herbivorous diet, primarily feeding on cacti, grasses, lichens, and other native vegetation. Its diet is instrumental in facilitating seed dispersal, aiding in local flora sustenance.
Appearance
Charles island giant tortoise is a large, dome-shaped tortoise with a thick, rugged shell. Its skin is leathery and grey-black, matching its shell color. This species doesn't have any unique markings or patterns. A distinctive feature is its elephant-like hind legs and columnar front legs, perfectly adapted for a life spent mostly on land. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Charles island giant tortoise is predominantly solitary, engaging in social interaction primarily during mating season. It feeds on native vegetation, showing diurnal activity patterns. Due to its slow metabolism, it spends significant time basking in the sun. Unlike most reptiles, charles island giant tortoise does not display significant territorial behavior.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Tortoises Species
Charles island giant tortoise 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
