Cylindraspis peltastes (Domed Rodrigues Giant Tortoise)

Conservation Status:
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Cylindraspis peltastes was a giant tortoise species endemic to Mauritius and its surrounding islands. Once abundant, this species played a vital role in its ecosystem before its extinction due to human activities and the introduction of invasive species.

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Testudinidae
  • Genus: Cylindraspis
  • Species: Cylindraspis peltastes

Common Names

  • Domed Rodrigues Giant Tortoise

Identification

Description

Cylindraspis peltastes had a relatively smaller size compared to other giant tortoises, with a distinctive saddle-backed shell, which was curved upwards to allow for greater neck extension. Its limbs were sturdy and well-adapted for slow movement across rugged terrain.

Sexual Dimorphism

There was little evidence of marked sexual dimorphism, though males were slightly larger than females, as is typical in many tortoise species.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species was native to Rodrigues Island, part of the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. They were also found on nearby islets until their extinction.

Preferred Habitat

Cylindraspis peltastes preferred dry, open areas with low vegetation. The islands’ rocky terrain provided an ideal environment for these tortoises to graze and navigate.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

This tortoise was primarily herbivorous, feeding on a wide variety of native plants, grasses, and fruits. Its long neck allowed it to reach vegetation that other grazers couldn’t access.

Predators

As an adult, Cylindraspis peltastes had few natural predators, though hatchlings were vulnerable to birds and other small animals. Invasive species introduced by humans, like rats and cats, played a major role in their decline.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding likely occurred during the warmer months, although specific data is limited due to the species’ early extinction.

Reproductive Method

Females laid eggs in shallow nests dug into the ground. These nests were often in sandy or soft soil areas, ensuring the eggs’ protection from environmental threats.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Cylindraspis peltastes is classified as extinct. The species went extinct in the early 1800s, primarily due to overexploitation by humans and the introduction of invasive species.

Threats

The primary threats to the species were overhunting by sailors, who captured the tortoises as a food source, and habitat destruction. Introduced species such as rats and pigs also preyed on eggs and hatchlings.

Conservation Measures

Unfortunately, no conservation efforts were in place before the species became extinct. Modern conservation measures include efforts to protect other tortoise species in the Mascarene Islands.

Economic Importance

The species had no major economic importance except as a food source for sailors during long voyages.

Interesting Facts

  • Cylindraspis peltastes played a crucial ecological role by spreading seeds of native plants through their diet.
  • These tortoises had a unique ability to survive long periods without food or water, making them a prized food source on ships.

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.