Species Details

@Susan Myers

Asian Giant Tortoise Did you see this animal?

Scientific Name : Manouria emys
Family : Testudinidae
Order : Testudines
Class : Reptilia
Phylum : Chordata
Other Name : Burmese Brown Tortoise
Habitat : Hilly Evergreen forests
 
Description : The Asian giant tortoise is a large tortoise with a high, domed carapace that is usually brown or black in color. The plastron (underside of the shell) is yellow or tan. They have a large head and strong legs with sharp claws.
This tortoise can grow up to 60-90 centimeters (24-35 inches) in length and weigh up to 25-30 kilograms (55-66 pounds).

This tortoise is found in a variety of forest habitats, including rainforests, dry forests, and scrublands.

This species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. They are generally active during the day and are known to be good climbers and swimmers.

The Asian Giant tortoise is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade. They are heavily hunted for their meat and shells, which are used in traditional medicine and sold as souvenirs.
Efforts are being made to conserve this species, including habitat protection, education and awareness programs, and enforcement of laws against illegal trade. It is also listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which regulates international trade in threatened species.
 
Distribution in Bangladesh
References:
description written by: Durjoy Raha Antu,Department of Zoology, Jagannath University,Dhaka; information source:Khan 2018 (Photographic guide to the wildlife of Bangladesh). photo credit:Susan Myers(www.inaturalist.org/people/Susan Myers), photo copyright: iNaturalist. more information please contact with us.