Tortoise is a common name for a land-dwelling reptile of the order Testudines. Tortoises are characterized by a high degree of armored protection around their bodies, including shells composed of bony plates overlying softer tissues. They have relatively short limbs and stubby tails, and typically move slowly on land. Tortoises are found in warm climates throughout the world, and many species are kept as pets.
Tortoises are among the oldest reptiles alive today, with some fossil evidence suggesting they first appeared more than 200 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. The group includes both living and extinct species, with most tortoises belonging to the families Testudinidae (true tortoises) and Geoemydidae (most turtles). Members of these families are found on every continent except Antarctica.
The shell of a tortoise serves as important defense against predators, but it also limits the animal’s ability to move quickly or climb trees. As such, tortoises have evolved various methods of avoiding predation, including burrowing into soil or hiding in their shells when threatened. Some species can also swim well and may spend time in bodies of water to escape terrestrial predators or harsh conditions on land.
The diet of a tortoise depends on its particular habitat and range, but most species are herbivorous animals that feed primarily on plants. Some desert-dwelling tortoises get moisture from the succulent plants they eat, while others drink from freshwater sources like ponds or streams. In captivity, pet tortoises should be offered a variety of plant foods along with occasional treats like insects or fruits.