Common Turtle and Tortoise Identification Guide

Author: China National Editorial Department
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-01-01
Features: Turtles and tortoises, as part of biological resources, have been utilized by humans for a long time, especially being widely used in scientific research, education, culture, medicine, food, and many other aspects. In recent years, international trade in turtles and tortoises has been highly active, involving a wide variety of species, from pet breeds like the Brazilian turtle and Indian star tortoise, whose shells are used in traditional medicine, to food species such as giant turtles and alligator snails, with over 100 species in total, including the Chinese softshell turtle which can now be artificially bred. Many countries engage in turtle and tortoise trade, with Asia being the primary distribution and consumption region for these species, mainly for traditional medicine and food, with a significant number also exported to North America and Europe as pets. Currently, the global trade volume of turtles and tortoises is substantial, compounded by factors such as environmental pollution and habitat destruction, which have led to varying degrees of damage to wild turtle and tortoise populations. Therefore, protecting turtles and tortoises, particularly regulating their trade, has become extremely urgent. China has over 40 wild turtle and tortoise species, with a long history of breeding and rearing these animals. It now mass-breeds species like the Chinese softshell turtle and exports softshell turtles and products. In recent years, China has also imported some turtles and tortoises from Southeast Asian countries and North America, primarily for ornamental, food, and traditional medicinal purposes.