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The Galapagos Islands are one of only two places in the world where Giant Tortoise live and Isabela Island has the largest giant tortoise population. There are three major groups of tortoise. This distinction is based primarily on the shape of the shell: The Saddleback, The Dome-shaped, and the Intermediate. The Saddleback, with its long neck and legs, is able to look for food such as cactus pads and leaves, high above the ground. It is found in the arid zones of the lowlands. The Dome-shaped is heavies and grazes on grass. The Intermediate is a variation of the dome shape. Tortoises can live in dry areas because
they can conserve water and fat. Female tortoise lays 4-5 eggs on some islands and 12-15 on other islands. The number depends on the species. Researchers have learned that it is the temperature of incubation which influences the sex of the giant tortoise. If the temperature is higher or equal to 28.5 degrees C., it will be a female, but if it is below that temperature, the eggs produce a male. There are many predators including the black rat which was brought to the Galapagos by pirates. Wild pigs are also a threat as are feral dogs and feral cats. |
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Galapagos Directory |