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Turtles can make great pets, and we can also see them when we enjoy outdoor activities, which can cause many people to wonder if they can live on land. The short answer is yes. There are many terrestrial turtles that we can see in the wild and even keep as pets. Keep reading as we compare the different types of turtles and explain the difference between aquatic and terrestrial turtles so you can identify them.
Comparison Table: Aquatic vs. Terrestrial Turtles
There are many physical differences between aquatic and land-based turtles that can make it easier to identify them. For instance, aquatic turtles have flippers on their feet, which make it easier for them to swim. Land-based turtles don’t have flippers but can pull themselves into their shell to hide from predators, unlike some aquatic turtles. Here is a chart that compares the two:
| Metric | Aquatic Turtles | Terrestrial Turtles |
| Habitat | Primarily water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans | Land-based habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts |
| Locomotion | Flippers for swimming | Feet with claws for digging |
| Respiratory System | Breathe through lungs, with some having adaptations to absorb oxygen through their cloaca | Breathe through lungs |
| Shell Shape | Streamlined, flat, and more hydrodynamic for swimming | Dome shaped, robust, and often featuring patterns and colors |
| Diet | Omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small aquatic animals | Omnivorous or Herbivorous, consuming both plant matter and animal protein |
Turtles, Tortoises and Terrapins
You will often see these terms used interchangeably, but it is helpful to know which is which, but it can seem a bit confusing.
All tortoises and terrapins are turtles. They are members of the Order Testudina (which includes some extinct species), and are also known as Chelonians. Informally, when talking about these shelled reptiles, most people use these distinctions:
- Turtle – aquatic, having flippers or webbed feet. Sometimes used to describe only sea turtles, but also all turtles, tortoises and terrapins
- Tortoise – terrestrial, feet not flippers
- Terrapins – freshwater turtles, webbed feet
So as you can see, all tortoises and terrapins are turtles, but it is useful to know which type we are referring to.
Aquatic Turtles
Aquatic turtles are well-suited for life in the water. They can inhabit various aquatic environments, including rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans. Their streamlined, flat shells and paddle-shaped limbs enable them to navigate through water easily. They breathe using their lungs, and although they have a large lung capacity, they must return to the surface to get air. Certain species can absorb oxygen directly from the water, which helps them stay under longer, and some can even remain underwater for several hours to sleep. In some species, it also enables them to brumate (reptile hibernation) under frozen water over winter. Their diet is primarily omnivorous, and they mainly eat insects; small aquatic animals like fish, frogs, worms, etc.; and aquatic plants, and as juveniles are largely carnivorous. Many have specialized adaptations like sharp beaks, which help them capture food underwater. They will survive on land, but not long term.
Popular Pet Aquatic Turtles
Red-Eared Slider
Red-Eared Sliders are semi-aquatic and among the most popular pet turtles. They’re native to the southern United States and get their name from the red patch behind each eye. These turtles have vibrant markings and are extremely adaptable to various aquatic habitats.
Painted Turtle
Painted Turtles are widespread in North America and have colorful and intricate shell patterns. They are excellent swimmers, and you will find them in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers across America. They are also popular pets due to their colorful appearance.
Terrestrial Turtles
Terrestrial turtles, aka tortoises, have adapted to life on land. They can inhabit various land-based habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts, and to help them survive, they have different characteristics than aquatic turtles. Their shells tend to be more dome shaped and robust, providing enhanced protection from predators and environmental hazards, and they can pull their whole bodies into their shells. The shells of various species often feature intricate patterns and colors, making them visually appealing and a good choice for pets.
While their walking speed may not match the agility of their aquatic counterparts in water, terrestrial turtles have adapted well to navigating diverse terrains. Certain terrestrial turtle species have even developed specialized features, such as long legs and curved claws, that enable them to climb trees or dig burrows. Like aquatic turtles, terrestrial turtles breathe through their lungs, and they eat various plants, fruits, insects, worms, small vertebrates, and even carrion, depending on their environment.
Popular Terrestrial Turtles
Box Turtle
Box turtles are a group of land-dwelling turtles known for their ability to fully retract their head, limbs, and tail into their shell, protecting them from predators. Their domed shell is hinged at the bottom so they can close it tightly. You can find this species in various habitats across North America and Asia. Box turtles are popular pets due to their manageable size and intriguing behaviors.
Tortoise
Tortoises are terrestrial turtles characterized by their heavy, dome-shaped shells and herbivorous diets. You will find them in arid or semi-arid regions, as they have adapted to survive in dry climates. Popular tortoise species include the African Spurred Tortoise, the Sulcata Tortoise, and the Red-Footed Tortoise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Terrestrial Turtles Live?
The lifespan of terrestrial turtles can vary depending on the species and their specific care. On average, many terrestrial turtle species can live for several decades. Some species, like the tortoise, have the potential to live well over 50 years, with some individuals reaching over 100 years of age.
Jonathan, a Seychelles Giant Tortoise, is estimated to be around 200 years old, making him the oldest living animal on earth.
Can Terrestrial Turtles Swim?
Terrestrial turtles are not as proficient at swimming as their aquatic counterparts. While they may be able to swim to a certain extent, they enjoy life on land. Their limb structure and shell shape are better suited for walking or crawling than swimming in water, but they’ll manage to paddle back to dry land if needed.
Can Aquatic Turtles Live in a Regular Fish Tank?
While you can initially house aquatic turtles in a fish tank, be aware that they have different needs than fish. Aquatic turtles require large enclosures with sufficient swimming, basking, and exploring spaces. A proper turtle tank should have a filtration system, a basking area with UVB lighting, and enough water that they can submerge and swim comfortably. Ideally, a dedicated turtle habitat or enclosed pond is best suited to keeping your terrapins happy and healthy.
How Often Do Aquatic Turtles Need to Bask?
Turtles are ectothermic, relying on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Basking is essential for them to thermoregulate and dry their shells. Most aquatic turtles will bask daily for several hours to absorb warmth and UVB rays, depending on the ambient temperature. Providing a basking area with an appropriate temperature gradient is crucial for their health and well-being.
Conclusion
Many different turtle species prefer to live on land, including several species of tortoise and the popular Box Turtle, that many like to keep as pets. These turtles differ from aquatic varieties with their domed shells that they can retract into and their clawed feet that help them dig burrows. Many of these turtles also have colorful shells that help make them popular with children. Aquatic freshwater turtles, also known as terrapins, can also be colorful, but their shell is usually flatter and more streamlined to make swimming easier. They often have webbed feet, and some will have other adaptations, like a sharp, pointy jaw that helps them capture prey.
See Also:
- Do Turtles Sleep? Habits, Different Species, & FAQ
- Can Turtles Live in a Pond During Winter? Vet-Approved Safety Guide
Featured Image Credit: Jay Ondreicka, Shutterstock
