Geochelone, from Ancient Greek γῆ (gê), meaning "earth", and χελώνη (khelṓnē), meaning "turtle", is a genus of tortoises.
Geochelone tortoises, which are also known as typical tortoises or terrestrial turtles, can be found in southern Asia. They primarily eat plants.
Species The genus consists of two extant species: Image Common name Scientific name Distribution Indian star tortoise Geochelone elegans India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Burmese star tortoise Geochelone platynota Myanmar
A number of tortoise species have been recently removed from the genus. This taxon as formerly defined was "polyphyletic, representing at least five independent clades". Tortoises removed include members of Aldabrachelys (from the Seychelles and Madagascar), Astrochelys (Madagascar), Chelonoidis (South America and the Galápagos Islands), Stigmochelys and Centrochelys (Africa), and the extinct Megalochelys (southern Asia). These species are also unique for their ability to remember patterns and spatial pathways. Similar to mammals, these tortoises can remember directions and pathways by remembering the correct pathways in their long-term memory.Wilkinson, A., Chan, H. M., & Hall, G. (2007). Spatial learning and memory in the tortoise (Geochelone carbonaria). Journal of Comparative Psychology, 121(4), 412.
"Self-righting" shell
The form of the shell of the Indian star tortoise resembles a gömböc, allowing it to turn over when lying upside down very easily.
References
Geochelone Report in Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Retrieved January 12, 2008.
External links Care tips