There are many differences between tortoises and turtles but some of the most notable ones include their habitats diets and shells.
Tortoises are land-dwelling creatures that are found in warm dry climates. They have thick leathery shells that protect them from predators and the hot sun. Their diet consists mostly of plants such as grasses and fruits.
Turtles on the other hand are mainly aquatic creatures that can be found in both fresh- and saltwater habitats. They have lighter shells that are streamlined for swimming. Their diet consists of both plants and animals such as fish crustaceans and worms.
While there are many other differences between these two groups of reptiles these are some of the most noticeable ones.
What is the difference between a tortoise and a turtle?
Tortoises live on land while turtles live in water.
What is the difference in shell between a tortoise and a turtle?
A tortoise’s shell is more blocky and dome-shaped.
A turtle’s shell is more flat and streamlined.
Which animal has a longer lifespan a tortoise or a turtle?
Tortoises typically have longer lifespans than turtles.
What is the difference in diet between a tortoise and a turtle?
Tortoises are mostly herbivorous while turtles are mostly carnivorous.
Which animal is faster a tortoise or a turtle?
Turtles are generally faster than tortoises.
What is the difference in habitat between a tortoise and a turtle?
Tortoises live on land while turtles live in water.
Do all tortoises live on land?
No some tortoises live in water.
Do all turtles live in water?
No some turtles live on land.
What is the difference in shell between a turtle and a terrapin?
A turtle’s shell is more flat and streamlined.
A terrapin’s shell is more ridged and has a hinged bottom.
What is the difference in diet between a turtle and a terrapin?
Turtles are mostly carnivorous while terrapins are omnivorous.
What is the difference in habitat between a turtle and a terrapin?
Turtles live in water while terrapins live on land.
Which animal has a longer lifespan a turtle or a terrapin?
Terrapins typically have longer lifespans than turtles.
Which animal is faster a turtle or a terrapin?
Turtles are generally faster than terrapins.
What is the difference in shell between a tortoise and a terrapin?
A tortoise’s shell is more blocky and dome-shaped.
A terrapin’s shell is more ridged and has a hinged bottom.
What is the difference in diet between a tortoise and a terrapin?
Tortoises are mostly herbivorous while terrapins are omnivorous.
