Marginated Tortoise
Outline
The Marginated tortoise's is a relatively under-rated species of arid tortoise. Testudo marginata originally came to the US back into the 1970's under the group of Mediterranean tortoises. Although they have been imported for years, large groups have not been established such as some of the other species of testudo available. This has caused a scarcity of Marginate Tortoises available in the pet industry, with average consumers rarely even seeing animals these animals
It is noted Marginated Tortoises and certain species of Greek Tortoises have produced viable hybrids in nature. It, of course, is NOT recommended to purposefully dilute the genetic availability of these animals in captivity, but more-so to categorize the overlapping territory these two have.
Coloration & Characteristics
Marginated Tortoises are undeniable very different when compared to any other tortoises available on the market. They are large, and they have a very interesting and particular shell shape which is undeniably intriguing.
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Marginated Tortoises can be measured two ways, by their carapace (top) or by their plastron (bottom). It is important to distinguish between the two. Most marginated Tortoises have a plastron between 9 inches and 10 inches, with males and females being similar lengths for full gown specimen. On the other hand, the carapace will be up to 14 inches long.
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The distinct different between these two measurements is also why these tortoises are named Marginated Tortoises. The rear margin flair of the carapace can grow up to 4 inches long, resembling the brim of a hat, in a spectacular displace of diversity.
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Marginated Tortoises can also be a variety of colors, displaying blacks, reddish brown, and tan.
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The belly pattern also can similarly look like that of a Herman's Tortoise with clear and defined blotches along each scute. The different is the placement and growth of the blotches, originating from the top margins of each scute (the side closest to the face).​​​
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Breeding
The Marginated Tortoise
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In our incubator, the time frame is 62-65 days (average of 63 days) at a pretty consistent 86 F. Naturally, ground hatched babies take longer. Eggs will diapause in the ground, so, although they are more likely to still develop during those 62-65 days, there is a portion of time with no development or slow growth which can be unpredictable. This time frame can move all the way up to 100-150 days in comparison. Eggs laid in the ground in April and May will tend to hatch around August and September of the same year.
Habitat
The Marginated Tortoise​