Posted by:
EJ
at Tue Dec 4 15:31:02 2007 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by EJ ]
ummm... you're a bit mistaken here.
The rate of growth or the amount of protein has absolutely no bearing on the shape of the shell of any tortoise.
If the 'monotonous' diet is well formed and balanced it again has no bearing on the shape of any tortoises shell.
The deformed shells are the result of improper environmental conditions for the most part.
Aldabras are one of the few tortoises that are well documented in feeding on carrion and are even considered canibalistic at times.
>>In general, redfoots are opportunistic omnivores, they eat almost anything but will deform if fed a monotonous diet or one too rich in protein (vegetable or animal). The aldabras are hardy but I have seen many, forced by too rich a diet and a corresponding accelerated growth rate, with deformed shells. The same is true for sulcatas and leopards. They are dry grassland or desert animals and should not be fed fruit, high protein vegetable matter(legumes, sprouts) or meat. I refer you to Highfield's dietary recommendations.
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Ed @ Tortoise Keepers
Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care
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RE: Need caresheet for Aldabra - EJ, Tue Dec 4 15:31:02 2007