Generalised Tortoise

Tortoises are from the reptile family in which they differ from turtles. Tortoises have shells to protect from the threat.The Head of the tortoise has a unique block shape and a beak consisting of narrow sets of eyes. Noses are practically with two little holes in front of the beak.The shell of the tortoise is made of several small bones. However, it is covered by separate plates of keratin called scutes. Central scute is right in the centre of the shell, usually located at the top.

Precentral scutes found next to the central scutes, collectively known as the vertebral. Vertebral scutes interpret the midline of the carapace. While, lateral scutes are put together on both sides of 8 lateral scutes 4 on each side of the vertebral. Lateral scutes are also known as coastals. Below the post central scutes the excretory part of the tortoise is placed.

Tiny scutes found on the edge/margin of the carapace which are called marginal scutes. The majority of the turtles have 13 scutes. The upper shell, which is the mound top of the shell, is said to be carapace and the lower shell is a flat layer under the belly that is plastron to help to identify the specimen. Claws are used as grip to crawl underwater and move on beaches. Adult males use claws to grasp females while mating. Mostly female turtles use the hind flippers to dig conical-shaped nests up to the depth of 55cm where 150 eggs can be laid. Fore flippers are used to hold the prey and tear big parts of their food.

Questions 1-6 

Label the diagram below

Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS for each answer.