Differences and Similarities Between Turtles and Tortoises

Turtles are reptiles, chelonians are commonly called turtles, including terrapins and tortoises. These species are cold blooded animals and one of the oldest reptile groups in the world.

Turtle

Turtles are large species of freshwater and sea dwelling chelonian. Indian flapshell turtle is one of the freshwater species of turtle and Olive ridley sea turtle is the largest species of sea turtle found in India.

• Olive Ridley Sea Turtle

Tortoise

Tortoises species are land turtle only found in dry areas and scrub forest of Indian subcontinent. Tortoises species very popular in the exotic pet trade and Indian star tortoise is one of the most heavily trafficked animals of India.

• Indian Star Tortoise

– Terrapin

Terrapins are small species of fresh water turtle living in lakes, rivers and brackish water. Indian pond terrapin also known as Indian black turtle is one of the medium sized freshwater Terrapin found in India.

• Indian Pond Terrapin