Why is my tortoise shell splitting?
Shell rot is caused by bacterial or fungal infections. Uneven growth of the scutes can cause pyramiding of the shell, which is a deformed shape, and shells can be cracked, split, chipped or broken just as bones can be.
Can a tortoise separate from its shell?
No. All turtles and tortoises are born with one shell. They do not shed the shell, though some turtles may shed old scutes as new ones form. Turtles and tortoises can never leave their shells, so they can never change to a new one.
What happens when a tortoise shell pyramids?
Pyramiding is the raising of scutes during active growth periods in tortoises. As a tortoise grows normally each scute increases in size horizontally thus increasing the overall diameter of each scute and the size of the tortoise. During normal growth this scute enlargement will lead to smooth growth.
What are scutes on a tortoise?
Scutes on a tortoise are the hard scales making up its shell that look like separate plates. Scutes form a protective exterior layer covering the tortoise’s shell bones and epithelium. Scutes are made of keratin, similar to fingernails. The scutes cover a layer of epithelium which overlies the bony shell.
What does split Scute mean?
Usually, when the issue arises, it’s either because there are additional scutes or missing scutes, which then naturally align accordingly. The condition is also known as split scutes. It is classified as a cosmetic deformity of the shell, and it makes a tortoise more unique.
Do tortoises feel pain in their shells?
Absolutely yes! Tortoises and turtles feel their shell very well because there are nerves that lead back to their nervous system. They can feel their shell being stroked, scratched, tapped, or otherwise touched. Tortoise and turtle shells are also sensitive enough to feel pain.
Can you reverse tortoise pyramiding?
The simple answer to this is unfortunately no. Once the effects of pyramiding have manifested there is no way to reverse them, the structure of the shell as well as the underlying bone structure have permanently formed a certain way, just as they would otherwise permanently form in the correct way.
Can you stop tortoise pyramiding?
Scutes that have already started pyramiding cannot be reversed. However, providing your tortoise with proper diet and care can allow new growth to happen horizontally. Since pyramiding usually happens in the first 2-3 years of a tortoise’s life, owners must provide the right environment for a growing tortoise.
What are the scutes?
A scute or scutum (Latin: scutum; plural: scuta “shield”) is a bony external plate or scale overlaid with horn, as on the shell of a turtle, the skin of crocodilians, and the feet of birds.
Should a tortoise shell be smooth?
It’s normal. Pyramiding is common amongst tortoises in captivity but is not unheard of in the wild. The reason why pyramiding is not as well-documented is because tortoises in the wild have ways to smooth out their shells naturally.
How often should I give my tortoise calcium powder?
2-3 times a week
Vitamin / calcium supplements such as Reptavite or Nutrobal can be sprinkled onto the tortoise’s food 2-3 times a week. If the tortoise is being housed in an enclosure that has natural vegetation then additional feeding should be rarely offered, and when it is, it should only be to add supplements.
Do tortoises like being stroked?
In the proper care, however, most tortoises appear to enjoy being touched by their caretakers. In some cases, they extend their necks out while being touched or massaged – a sign that the animal wants to be rubbed some more.