Marginated Tortoise

Marginated Tortoise key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

Fifty to seventy years under good care

Size

Carapace up to 39cm, with typical adults at 30-38cm

Temperature

Diet

Grasses, leaves, flowers, fruit and tortoise diet

Temperature & Humidity

Use a mercury vapour lamp or similar to hold the spot directly under the bulb at 35-38 C, letting the rest of the enclosure fall to room temperature so there is a gradient. Nights at 18-21 C are fine. If humidity stays above 60 per cent, keep the animal above 27 C at all times.

Enclosure

Give at least 5 cm of substrate so the tortoise can dig in, and keep it slightly damp to create microclimates. Once it reaches about 10 cm it can live outdoors and tolerates fairly harsh conditions. Outdoors, sink the walls deep and cap the corners with an overhang so it cannot climb out.

Diet & Feeding

Entirely herbivorous: feed grasses, leaves, flowers and fruit. Avoid high-protein, high-fat foods, which cause shell deformity.

Temperament

Hardy, easy to handle and of manageable adult size. It is placid, but males fight, so if several are kept together give them plenty of space and hides.

Notes

The family Testudinidae was listed on CITES Appendix II in 1977, the current listing effective 2 January 2017. Appendix II species need no individual registration certificate in Japan, and it is neither a designated dangerous animal nor an invasive alien species there. Collection and export of wild animals are tightly restricted, and the trade is supplied entirely by European captive-bred stock.

About Marginated Tortoise

An introduction to the Marginated Tortoise, the largest Mediterranean tortoise species — its traits, temperament, and key points to know before bringing one home.

7 things to know before welcoming a Marginated Tortoise

1. 1Requires Ample Space

   Adults typically reach 30-38cm in carapace length, with a maximum of 39cm, making this a large species. Indoor enclosures should be sized with future growth in mind, and outdoor space is worth considering where possible.

2. 2An Exceptionally Long Lifespan

   Under proper care, this species can live 50 to 70 years — potentially outliving its keeper. Before bringing one home, it's worth thinking about long-term care arrangements, including who might take over in the future.

3. 3Suited to Intermediate Keepers

   This species is generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers. It's best to have a foundation in tortoise care basics — temperature and humidity control, UV lighting — before bringing one home.

4. 4The Distinctive Flaring Scutes

   As it matures, the rear marginal scutes flare outward like a skirt — the species' most defining trait. This is especially pronounced in males, becoming more distinct with age.

5. 5A Generally Easygoing Temperament

   Many individuals are described as calm and easygoing, though temperament can vary. After bringing one home, observe its behavior closely and adjust your approach to match its individual pace.

6. 6Managing UV Light and Temperature Gradients

   UV lighting and a proper temperature gradient are essential to this tortoise's health. Set up a basking hotspot alongside a cooler area within the enclosure, and make daily temperature checks part of your routine.

7. 7Watching for Changes in Condition

   Make it a habit to observe appetite, shell condition, and activity levels regularly. Given the long lifespan involved, building a relationship where you can catch small changes early matters all the more.

Frequently asked questions about Marginated Tortoise

Q.How large does a Marginated Tortoise grow?

A.It is the largest Mediterranean tortoise species, reaching up to 39cm in carapace length, with typical adults measuring 30-38cm. Plan enclosure space with this eventual size in mind.

Q.How long will I be caring for this tortoise?

A.Under proper care, this species can live 50 to 70 years. It's worth thinking through a long-term care plan before bringing one home.

Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?

A.This species is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than beginners. Understanding the basics of tortoise care — temperature, humidity, and UV lighting — beforehand is recommended.

Q.What is the flaring scute the name refers to?

A.As the tortoise matures, its rear marginal scutes flare outward like a skirt — the feature behind both its Japanese and English names. This is especially pronounced in males.

Q.Is this species subject to any international trade regulation?

A.Marginated Tortoise is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

Useful tools for Marginated Tortoise care

Learn more about Marginated Tortoise in the encyclopedia

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