
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Geochelone elegans
A beautiful Indian tortoise with radial star patterns on shell. Small and manageable but needs high humidity.
The Indian star tortoise is a threatened tortoise species native to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka where it inhabits dry areas and scrub forest. It has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2016, as the population is thought to comprise more than 10,000 individuals, but with a declining trend. It is threatened by habitat loss and poaching for the illegal wildlife trade. It was upgraded to CITES Appendix I in 2019 by full consensus among all member states, giving it the highest level of international protection from commercial trade. Conservation group TRAFFIC found 6,040 were seized globally that were intended to be sold in the pet trade. Currently they are commonly bred in many countries to be sold as pets.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Indian Star Tortoise lives 30-50 years.
The Indian Star Tortoise grows to 20-30cm.
Origin
India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka where it inhabits dry areas and scrub forest
Lifespan
30-50 years
Size
20-30cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Geochelone elegans (Schoepff, 1795)
Synonyms: Peltastes stellatus maura Gray, 1870, Peltastes stellatus seba Gray, 1870, Testudo actinodes Bell, 1828, Testudo actinodes Gray, 1831, Testudo actinoides Bell, 1828, Testudo elegans Schoepff, 1795
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Upgraded to Appendix I in 2019 (CoP18). International commercial trade is prohibited in principle.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Geochelone elegans Appendix I; moved from Appendix II to Appendix I at CoP18 2019) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
40〜70%
Grass, Vegetables
Provide plenty of space and a shallow water dish. It copes poorly with Japan's hot, humid summers, so use a well-ventilated enclosure.
Keep 25-32°C with a 35-40°C basking spot. In summer ensure ventilation to avoid stagnant, hot and humid conditions.
Strong UVB lighting is essential. Combine it with a basking lamp to support healthy shell and bone development.
Herbivorous; timothy hay, wild greens and low-sugar vegetables are the staples. Avoid high-protein or high-sugar foods, which harm the kidneys and shell.
CITES Appendix I (uplisted from II in 2019). Domestic trade is limited to registered specimens; verify the registration certificate at purchase.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Indian Star Tortoise is 30-50 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Indian Star Tortoise typically reaches 20-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Indian Star Tortoise feeds on: Grass, Vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Indian Star Tortoise varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026