Common hinge tortoise
A species of Hinge-back tortoise, Also known as Hingeback tortoise Scientific name : Kinixys belliana Genus : Hinge-back tortoise
Common hinge tortoise, A species of Hinge-back tortoise
Also known as:
Hingeback tortoise
Scientific name: Kinixys belliana
Genus: Hinge-back tortoise
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Bell's hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys belliana) is a species of African tortoise, from the family Testudinidae. It has the hinge that characterizes all tortoises in the genus Kinixys. There are several subspecies (some of which may actually be separate species; see below) and the Bell's hinge-back tortoise is subject to wide variation throughout its extensive range.
General Info
Lifespan
50-100 years
Diet
Common hinge tortoise is primarily a herbivorous species with a strong preference for a variety of plants and fruits. It selectively consumes succulent leaves, soft fruits, and occasional biodegradable matter such as fungi and dead insects, characterizing a coprophagous tendency.
Appearance
Common hinge tortoise is a medium-sized tortoise, known for its semi-domed, dark green-brown shell that often carries distinctive growth rings. Its skin is a similar hue, contrasting with the paler undersides. Two hinged plates characterize the lower shell, which can snugly close for protection. Common hinge tortoise presents no significant differences in color or morphology due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Common hinge tortoise is largely terrestrial and crepuscular, engaging in basking, foraging, and breeding activities predominantly around dawn and dusk. This species displays a solitary nature, except during mating season. As an omnivore, its survival is adapted to a diet of plants and small invertebrates.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Tortoises Genus
Hinge-back tortoise Species
Common hinge tortoise