galapagos giant tortoise

navigate by keyword : gal pagos giant tortoise largest tortoises massive dome shaped shell slow movements 900 pounds 400 feet meters dark brown grayish black protection predators thick legs sturdy heavy bodies long necks cacti grass leaves herbivorous diet small head eyes soulful beak like mouth moving mph longevity 100 years 150 charles darwin theory evolution archipelago variations islands populations herbivore vegetation reptile land endemic species ecuador conservation national parks endangered habitat metabolism biodiversity ecosystem unique adaptations environmental impact galapagos

Galapagos Giant Tortoise Royalty Free Stock Photo

Large Galapagos giant tortoise Royalty Free Stock Photo

Galapagos giant tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra) Royalty Free Stock Photo

Galapagos Giant Tortoise eating grass Royalty Free Stock Photo

Galapagos giant tortoise on Santa Cruz Island in Galapagos National Park, Ecuador Royalty Free Stock Photo

The GalÃ¡pagos giant tortoise is one of the largest tortoises in the world, known for its massive, dome-shaped shell and slow, lumbering movements. They can weigh up to 900 pounds (400 kg) and reach lengths of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters). Their large shells are usually dark brown or grayish-black, providing protection from predators. These tortoises have thick, sturdy legs to support their heavy bodies and long necks that help them reach vegetation like cacti, grass, and leaves.Their faces are characterized by a relatively small head with dark, soulful eyes, and a beak-like mouth that is adapted to their herbivorous diet. They are incredibly slow-moving, averaging a speed of only about 0.3 km h (0.2 mph), and are known for their longevity, often living over 100 years, with some recorded at over 150 years old.The GalÃ¡pagos giant tortoise is iconic for its role in shaping Charles Darwinâs theory of evolution, as populations of these tortoises vary slightly depending on the specific islands they inhabit within the GalÃ¡pagos Archipelago.