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The turtle shell is a shield for the ventral and dorsal parts of turtles (the order Testudines), completely enclosing all the vital organs of the turtle and in some cases even the head. [1] It is constructed of modified bony elements such as the ribs, parts of the pelvis and other bones found in most reptiles.
Aquatic turtles have flatter, smoother shells that allow them to cut through the water. Sea turtles in particular have streamlined shells that reduce drag and increase stability in the open ocean. Some turtle species have pointy or spiked shells that provide extra protection from predators and camouflage against the leafy ground. The lumps of a ...
The baby sea turtles break free of the egg shell, dig through the sand, and crawl into the sea. Most species of sea turtles hatch at night. However, the Kemp's ridley sea turtle commonly hatches during the day. Sea turtle nests that hatch during the day are more vulnerable to predators, and may encounter more human activity on the beach.
A Greek tortoise shell opened to show the skeleton from below Main article: Turtle shell The carapace is the dorsal (back) convex part of the shell structure of a turtle , consisting primarily of the animal's rib cage, dermal armor, and scutes .
Some other US states, too, have already adopted strict limitations on wild turtle trade. In 2009, South Carolina passed a law (Bill H.3121) restricting interstate and international export of wild-caught turtles (both soft-shell and some other species) to 10 turtles per person at one time, and 20 turtles per person per year. [17]
Scutes on an alligator foot. A scute (/ s k j uː t / ⓘ) or scutum (Latin: scutum; plural: scuta "shield") is a bony external plate or scale overlaid with horn, as on the shell of a turtle, the skin of crocodilians, and the feet of birds.
Turtles possessing short hands are believed to be most likely terrestrial, while turtles with long limbs are more likely to be aquatic. [15] The majority of all testudines are short-handed and terrestrial, while all cheloniods are long-handed and aquatic. [15] A study on its shell anatomy further conforms to a semi-aquatic mode of life. [17]
The turtle's neck and sides are brown on the tops and yellow on the sides and bottom. [9] The turtle's shell is divided into two sections: carapace and plastron. The carapace is further divided into large plates, or scutes. [20] Typically, 11 or 12 pairs of marginal scutes rim the carapace. [8]