ExploreReptiles

Dipsochelys dussumieri

Dipsochelys dussumieri

The Dipsochelys dussumieri, also known as the Indian Star Tortoise, is a beautiful tortoise with star-like patterns on its shell. These patterns help it blend into its dry, grassy home.

Habitat: Dry grasslands

Appearance

The Dipsochelys dussumieri is a truly massive tortoise, featuring a high-domed, dark grey or black shell. Its thick, elephantine legs and small head give it a distinct, ancient appearance, setting it apart from smaller, flatter-shelled tortoises.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassTestudinesOrderTestudinesFamilyTestudinidaeGenusAldabrachelys
Dipsochelys dussumieri
solitary trait badgecolorful trait badgegrassland trait badgeherbivorous trait badge
Dipsochelys dussumieri

Category

Reptiles

Rarity

Rare

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Baby tortoises hatch from eggs buried underground, not in nests!

The Dipsochelys dussumieri is one of the biggest land tortoises on Earth!

Their huge feet make special tracks, like tiny elephant prints!

They can go without food or water for astonishingly long times!

Special abilities

Ability

Life of Ages

Dipsochelys dussumieri has an incredibly long lifespan that helps them witness many generations of their island ecosystem.

Ability

Mobile Fortress

Dipsochelys dussumieri can retract into its colossal, bony shell for protection against almost any predator.

Ability

Water Tank

Dipsochelys dussumieri can store water in a sac near its bladder, helping it survive long dry periods without fresh water.

Measurements & details

Length
90-120 cm
Weight
150-250 kg
Lifespan
100-150 years
Top Speed
0.5 km/h
Clutch Size
4-14
Incubation
90-120 days

Diet & Feeding

These gentle giants munch mainly on plants, keeping the island's vegetation trimmed.

Primary Foods

  • Grasses
  • Leaves
  • Woody plant stems
  • Fruits
  • Algae

Foraging Method

  • Grazing

Ecological connections

eats

Bois de fer

Sideroxylon grandiflorum

Consumes fallen fruits and leaves.

eats

Bermudagrass

Cynodon dactylon

Grazes on common island grasses.

depends on

Aldabra Fody

Foudia aldabrana

Benefits from open habitat created by grazing.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch from a distance and never touch wild tortoises. They need their space!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Dipsochelys dussumieri?

90-120 cm

How much does Dipsochelys dussumieri weigh?

150-250 kg

How long does Dipsochelys dussumieri live?

100-150 years

How fast can Dipsochelys dussumieri move?

0.5 km/h

What does Dipsochelys dussumieri eat?

These gentle giants munch mainly on plants, keeping the island's vegetation trimmed.

Where is Dipsochelys dussumieri usually found?

Dry grasslands

How does Dipsochelys dussumieri hunt?

Grazing

How many eggs does Dipsochelys dussumieri lay?

4-14

Snap Map

Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.

Loading map…

Recent Snaps

Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Where to spot

More Reptiles