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· 29 Jan 2022

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How long do Turtle live?

When it comes to determining how long turtles live, the answers can be difficult to come by. Most species, however, can live for decades and could potentially function as a near-lifelong family member. One should be aware of this as prospective pet owners should be aware. Scientists and researchers are unable to pinpoint a specific lifespan for many species. However, that lengthy lifespan expectancy for pet turtles wasn't always the case many decades ago. They were never able to live healthily or grow to their full potential due to a bad food and inadequate illumination. Let us closely understand what all factors affects the life expectancy of turtles and how long do turtles live?

How long do turtles live?
Turtles are categorised as aquatic, semi-aquatic, or semi-terrestrial and can be found in a variety of climates. Many aquatic turtle species, such as Red-Eared Sliders and Painted Turtles, can conceivably live into their forties. Terrestrial box turtles have a lifespan of up to 100 years in the wild and an average of 40 to 50 years in captivity. Many turtles in captivity back then probably only lived 4 to 6 years due to poor treatment. Wild turtles and tortoises have lifespans that are even longer than pet turtles. Some tortoises can live for 100 years or more, while sea tortoises can live for even longer.

Possible reasons behind turtle’s long life
Turtles' comparatively sluggish metabolism appears to have a significant impact. It allows them to process diseases and ageing at a slower rate than birds or other domestic pets. It also allows them to survive for long periods of time without food or water. During hot and cold temperature extremes, turtles can enter stages of brumation and aestivation, which are similar to hibernation. Water turtles can go months without breathing underwater during those times, which some researchers believe plays a part in how their bodies cope with the stress of a decades-long lifespan.
Slow Growth: The slowness of turtles is one of the reasons they are thought to live such lengthy lives. Turtles grow at a snail's pace throughout their lifetimes. This keeps them from getting old like birds and mammals do. They can go for long periods without food or water due to their slow metabolisms, which provides them a better chance of surviving in difficult environments.
Reproduction: Another theory is that turtles and tortoises have an evolutionary advantage in terms of reproduction due to their extended lifetimes. Wild turtles live in hostile surroundings that aren't always favorable to reproduction. Because of their extended lifespans, they have more chances to reproduce. Turtles also have inherent predator protection in the form of robust shells and thick, armoured skin, which, unlike prey species, allows them to take their time reproducing.
Lifestyle: The Galapagos giant tortoise, the world's oldest turtle species, follows a strict vegetarian diet rich in greens and low in fat and cholesterol. These gentle giants move slowly and are exceptionally docile and peaceful creatures who lead relatively stress-free lives. Another factor for their exceptional longevity is their blend of calm and good living.


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