Turtles are reptiles of the order Testudines. The order Testudines includes both turtles and tortoises. All species of turtles and tortoises are air-breathing and have a shell. The shell is a protective structure that covers the turtle's body.
Turtles are found in a variety of habitats, including freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments. Freshwater turtles live in ponds, rivers, and lakes. Marine turtles live in the ocean. Terrestrial turtles live on land.
Turtles are ectothermic, meaning that they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. Turtles are also poikilothermic, meaning that their body temperature varies with the surrounding environment.
Turtles are generally herbivorous, but some species are omnivorous. Herbivorous turtles eat plants, while omnivorous turtles also eat animals.
Turtles are long-lived animals. Some species of turtles can live for over 100 years.
- Turtles are reptiles of the order Testudines.
- The earliest turtles date back to 215 million years ago.
- There are 356 species of turtles alive today.
- Turtles are found on every continent except Antarctica.
- Turtles are air-breathing and have a shell for protection.
- Turtles are long-lived, with some species living to over 100 years old.
- Turtles are a popular pet, but can also be found in the wild.