Turtles are a symbol of longevity, slowness and wisdom. Some representatives of this order of reptiles have the longest life expectancy among all animals that exist on Earth.
Instructions
Step 1
It is believed that the earliest ancestors of turtles appeared on earth around the middle of the Mesozoic era. Throughout their long evolutionary history, turtles have acquired all the necessary adaptations to survive in a wide variety of habitats. A hard shell and a powerful beak are reliable protection of the turtle from predators, as well as climatic disasters. Turtles, despite their unpretentious appearance, are the longest-living animals on the planet, since some representatives of this species can live up to 300 years.
Step 2
The lifespan of turtles varies by species and habitat. It is noteworthy that most species of turtles live significantly longer in their natural habitat, while in captivity their lifespan is significantly reduced. In their natural habitat, the snapping turtle can live for more than 150 years, the Seychelles turtle for 150 to 250 years, and the Galapagos giant turtles for more than 200 years. Balkan turtles generally live for about 90 years, although they are believed to be capable of surviving up to 120 years of age. Box turtles have lived in their natural habitat for over 100 years.
Step 3
Typically, only the largest turtle species have a lifespan of more than 150 years, while the smaller ones have an average lifespan of 30-80 years. For example, red-eared turtles, depending on environmental conditions, live on average from 20 to 50 years. Big-headed turtles only live up to 35-40 years. Small land and pond turtles rarely live longer than 30 years. Mediterranean turtles live on average about 50 years in their natural habitat, but there is evidence that representatives of this species can live up to 120 years. Most sea turtle species have an average lifespan of around 80 years.
