4/1/2023 0 Comments Tortoise complete anatomy![]() ![]() The carapace edges of most adult flatbacks are turned up. The carapace is rounded when viewed from above and has a flattened profile. Flatback turtles have 5 central scutes and 4 lateral scutes.When viewed from above, their carapace is almost completely round. Olive ridleys have 5 central scutes and 6 or more lateral scutes. ![]() Kemp’s ridley turtles have 5 central scutes and 5 lateral scutes.Loggerhead turtles have 5 central scutes and 5 lateral scutes.The carapace is elliptical when viewed from above. The scutes overlap and are pointed at the back end. Hawksbill turtles have 5 central scutes and 4 lateral scutes.Adults of the black subspecies have a higher domed carapace. The carapace is oval when viewed from above. Green sea turtles have 5 central scutes and 4 lateral scutes.Scientists can identify sea turtle species by the number and pattern of scutes. Scutes are firm but flexible, not brittle. In all species except the leatherback, the shell is covered with a layer of horny plates called scutes. The ventral (bottom) side of the shell is called the plastron. In all species except the leatherback, the bony shell is composed of broadened, fused ribs, and the backbone is attached to the carapace.Depending on species, the adult carapace ranges in shape from oval to heart-shaped.The dorsal (top) side of the shell is called the carapace. ShellĪ sea turtle’s large, bony shell provides protection from predation and abrasion. Each species has a jaw shape adapted for its diet. Like other turtles, sea turtles lack teeth. Sea turtles do not have an external ear opening. Sea turtles have large upper eyelids that protect their eyes. HeadĪ sea turtle cannot retract its head under its shell as a land turtle can. The hind flippers of some species are quite dexterous at digging nests in the sand. Hind flippers serve as rudders, stabilizing and directing the animal as it swims. ![]()
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