Apr 7
What a lovely little tort!
Pyxis Arachnoides, “Spider Tortoise”
Source: [Link]Fondazione Bioparco Di Roma
seen from United States
seen from Brazil
seen from Malaysia
seen from Vietnam
seen from Uzbekistan
seen from Philippines
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Argentina
seen from Mexico
seen from United States
seen from Vietnam
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Germany
seen from Argentina
seen from United States
seen from Türkiye
seen from United States
What a lovely little tort!
Pyxis Arachnoides, “Spider Tortoise”
Source: [Link]Fondazione Bioparco Di Roma
Spider Tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides)
...a critically endangered species of tortoise (Testudinidae) which is endemic to the island of Madagascar where it is now confined to the south western region. Spider tortoises are typically associated with areas of spiny vegetation in sandy coastal areas. In these areas they are known to feed on young leaves, insect larvae, and a range of other food items.
Currently Pyxis arachnoides is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. The reason for its decline stems mostly from habitat loss and over collection. Although their trade is illegal, they are smuggled into the pet trade and for food.
Classification
Animalia-Chordata-Reptilia-Testudines-Testudinidae-Pyxis-P. arachnoides
Image: JialiangGao
Spider Tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides) by David Cook Wildlife Photography (kookr) on Flickr.