African Tortoise

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The African sideneck turtle is a group of species belonging to the family Pelomedusidae. These turtles are known for their distinctive feature of retracting their heads sideways into their shells, rather than pulling them directly back as most other turtles do. Below are the general specifications for the African sideneck turtle, particularly the species Pelusios castaneus (West African Sideneck Turtle), which is one of the most common in captivity.

General Specifications:

Size and Weight:

• Adult Size: 7 to 12 inches (18 to 30 cm) in carapace length.


• Weight: Typically between 2 to 5 pounds (0.9 to 2.3 kg), though this can vary depending on the species.

Lifespan:

• In Captivity: 20 to 50 years, with proper care.


• In the Wild: Typically shorter due to environmental factors and predation.

Habitat:

• Natural Range: These turtles are native to various parts of Africa, including West Africa, Central Africa, and Southern Africa.


• Environment: They are found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, lakes, marshes, and swamps. They prefer warm, still waters with muddy bottoms and plenty of vegetation.

Behavior and Lifestyle:

• Temperament: Generally, they are shy and can be somewhat reclusive. However, they can become more interactive and less timid in captivity over time.


• Activity: They are semi-aquatic, spending time both in the water and on land. They are mostly diurnal, being active during the day.

Diet:

• In the Wild: Omnivorous diet consisting of aquatic plants, insects, fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and carrion.


• In Captivity: A balanced diet can include commercial turtle pellets, insects (like crickets), earthworms, small fish, leafy greens, and aquatic plants.

Reproduction:

• Breeding: Typically breed during the rainy season in the wild. Mating occurs in water.


• Eggs: Females lay clutches of 6 to 18 eggs on land, usually in a dug nest. Incubation lasts 60 to 100 days depending on temperature.

Temperature and Humidity:

• Water Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C).


• Basking Area Temperature: 90-95°F (32-35°C).


• Humidity: They thrive in high-humidity environments, particularly near water bodies.

Captive Care:

• Tank Setup: Requires a large tank with both water and land areas. A tank size of at least 75 gallons is recommended for adults.


• Water Quality: Must be maintained with filtration, and the water should be changed regularly to prevent bacterial growth.


• Basking Spot: A UVB light should be provided to ensure proper calcium metabolism and shell health.

Special Features:

• Shell: Their shell is typically oval and slightly domed, with a color ranging from dark brown to olive, often with yellow or tan patterns.


• Neck Retraction: Unlike other turtles, African tortoise retract their heads sideways under the edge of their shell, not straight back.

Common Health Issues:

• Shell Rot: Due to bacterial infections, often caused by poor water quality.


• Respiratory Infections: Can be common if the environment is too cold or too damp.


• Vitamin A Deficiency: Leading to eye and skin issues.

Proper care and a well-maintained environment are crucial for the health and longevity of African sideneck turtles in captivity.

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