Turtui

Turtui is a small genus of land turtles that consists of two species, Geochelone sulcata and Geochelone elegans. These turtles are found in the islands of the western Indian Ocean, specifically in the Seychelles and Madagascar.

Geochelone sulcata, also known as the Seychelles giant tortoise, is the largest species of the two. It is characterized by its brown and yellowish-brown carapace, which can reach up to 30 centimeters in diameter. The shell is highly domed and rounded, and the height of the carapace is much greater than its width. Adult turtles can weigh up to 10 kilograms and live up to 80 years in the wild.

Geochelone elegans, also known as the Aldabra giant tortoise, is the second largest species within the Turtui genus. It has a more elongated shell compared to Geochelone sulcata, reaching lengths of up to 50 centimeters. Its color pattern is characterized by bony plates on the edges of the carapace, which have a triangular and pointed shape.

Both species of turtui inhabit island ecosystems, where they feed on leaves, grasses, and other vegetation. They are herbivorous, and their diet consists mainly of succulent plants and shrubs.

Conservation concerns exist for the Turtui genus due to habitat loss and the introduction of non-native predators. Important steps to sustain these species in their natural habitats should be implemented, such as reducing the impact of invasive species.