What is the Difference between Terrapin, Turtle and Tortoise
The terms 'turtle,' 'tortoise,' and 'terrapin' are often used interchangeably. The reason is a lot of similarities between these three animals. Moreover, the physical appearances of these three different animals, looks alike. However, you have no need to confuse at all. Here is a comprehensive difference between these three different types of animals.
Terrapin
Famous turtle specie that is inhabitant of salty coastal areas of Southern and Eastern regions of United States is called Terrapin or diamondback Terrapin as well. The genus of terrapin is just monotypic, named as Malaclemys. The color of its sell could be different i.e. from gray to brown. Similarly, the color of its body could be different and found in large shades like brown, gray, white and yellow. The way of identifying this turtle specie is very easy thanks to black spots or markings on the head and body of terrapin.
Turtle
Reptile specie that belongs to “Testudines” order is known as turtle. The special feature of turtles is bony shell over their bodies that are made up from their ribs and act as a shield for them. However, other characteristics of turtles like respiratory system and reproduction system is similar to other amniotes like dinosaurs, reptiles, mammals and birds. It means they lay eggs on land and take breathe in air as well. The biggest specie of turtle is marine, but turtles that live in fresh water are normally smaller.
Tortoise
Another specie of reptiles that fall in the category of land-dwelling are called Testudinidae or tortoise. The shell of a tortoise keep them save from predators. The structure of shell is like this, the upper part is made up of carapace, while the lower side is made up of plastron and finally joined by means of bridge. The size of tortoises could be different, starting from only a few centimeters and ends up to 2 meters.
Terrapin vs Turtle vs Tortoise
The main difference between these three similar-looking animals is that turtles love saltish water, terrapin prefer fresh water, while the beloved place of tortoise is land. Moreover, sea turtles will have broad flippers rather than feet with claws. However, both terrapins and tortoises have feet.
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