Astrochelys radiata
Astrochelys radiata
(Shaw, 1902)
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Family: Testudinidae
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Common Name: Radiated Tortoise, Sokatra, Sokake
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IUCN Status: CR «
Critically Endangered
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Identification Key
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Domed shell, dark brown to black
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Bright yellow star-like patterns radiating from each dorsal scute
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Yellowish head and legs, sometimes with dark spots
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Adult size much larger than common local tortoises
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Similar species:
Astrochelys yniphora
Size & Weight
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Length: up to 40 cm (female) and 50 cm (male)
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Weight: 12–16 kg on average
Reproduction & Incubation
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Breeding season: during the rainy season
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Female lays 3–12 eggs
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Incubation: 5–8 months depending on temperature
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Hatchlings emerge during the rainy season
Sexual Dimorphism
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Slightly concave plastron
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Longer and thicker tail
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Often larger overall size
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Flat plastron
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Short tail
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Wider body (useful for carrying eggs)
Diet
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Strict herbivore: mainly grass, leaves,
flowers, fruits
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Especially likes fiber-rich plants (grasses)
Threats
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Poaching for meat and illegal pet trade
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Habitat destruction (bushfires, farming, urbanization)
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Vulnerable due to slow movement and low reproduction rate