Chelonoidis donfaustoi (Eastern Santa Cruz Tortoise)
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Chelonoidis donfaustoi is a recently discovered species of giant tortoise endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It was named in honor of Fausto Llerena Sánchez, a long-time caretaker of the famous Lonesome George. This species is known for its distinct shell shape and restricted habitat on Santa Cruz Island.
Native To These Regions
Santa Cruz Island (Ecuador)Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Testudinidae
- Genus: Chelonoidis
- Species: Chelonoidis donfaustoi
Common Names
- Eastern Santa Cruz Tortoise
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Identification
Description
Chelonoidis donfaustoi is a large tortoise species with a distinct saddleback-shaped shell, which helps them reach higher vegetation. Adults can grow quite large, with males typically larger than females. Their shells are brownish-grey, and they have thick, sturdy legs adapted for terrestrial movement.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males are generally larger with longer tails and more pronounced saddleback shells, while females are slightly smaller and have rounder, less pronounced shells.
Check more turtles from the Chelonoidis genus
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
This species is native to the eastern part of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos archipelago. Its range is highly restricted, limited to a specific part of the island, making it vulnerable to environmental changes.
Preferred Habitat
Chelonoidis donfaustoi prefers the arid lowland zones of Santa Cruz Island, characterized by sparse vegetation, rocky terrains, and low-lying shrubbery. This environment provides the tortoise with both food and protection from predators.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
As herbivores, they primarily feed on cacti, grasses, and other low-lying vegetation. During the dry season, they rely heavily on succulents and other moisture-rich plants.
Predators
Adult Chelonoidis donfaustoi has few natural predators, but hatchlings and eggs are vulnerable to introduced species like rats, dogs, and cats.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
The breeding season occurs during the wet season when food is abundant, typically from January to June.
Reproductive Method
Females lay eggs in sandy or soft soil nests, where they incubate for several months. The hatchlings emerge during the dry season and must quickly adapt to the harsh conditions of their environment.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Currently, Chelonoidis donfaustoi is classified as Endangered due to its limited range and population size.
Threats
The main threats to this species include habitat destruction, introduced predators, and competition with non-native species. Human activities have also impacted their environment, further endangering their survival.
Conservation Measures
Conservation efforts include habitat protection, breeding programs, and the control of invasive species. The Galápagos National Park and various conservation organizations are actively working to preserve this species.
Economic Importance
Chelonoidis donfaustoi plays a significant role in ecotourism, as visitors to the Galápagos Islands are drawn to see these unique tortoises in their natural habitat. This tourism contributes to the local economy and funds conservation efforts.
Interesting Facts
- Chelonoidis donfaustoi was only recognized as a distinct species in 2015, despite being long overlooked in favor of its more famous relatives.
- The species is named after Fausto Llerena Sánchez, who cared for Lonesome George, the last known Pinta Island tortoise.
- These tortoises can live well over 100 years, contributing to the long-term stability of their populations, provided their environment remains protected.
About Author
Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.
