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Is there a way estimate age?

bw6823 Jul 09, 2005 07:30 PM

I have a Ornate that I have had for 20 years now and was wondering if there was any way to estimate her age. Her plastron is worn flat there are just a couple of places that you can see faint lines. I read someone talking about pyramiding what is that is it related to age

Replies (3)

Alon Jul 10, 2005 05:31 AM

Not really- the old theory of counting scute rings was proven highly inaccurate.
Alon

streamwalker Jul 11, 2005 05:10 AM

As already stated, ( Thanks ALON ) counting scutes is not a true way to indentify age in boxies. They will add a ring each time there is a period of rapid growth rather than each year of life.

To determine a boxies age one would need to section a piece of their hind leg bone. You and I would want to pass on that.

Pyramiding is not related to determining age; but to improper growth of the boxie's scutes due to poor diet, lack of UVB lighting, or a combination of both.

Very old boxies will have worn off their rings and appear to have a smooth carapace. The geographical area, and hardships endured by each individual boxie affect how fast their shells become smooth. If you can barely see faint rings; I would guess that your boxie is between 40 & 50 years of life.

Ric

bw6823 Jul 11, 2005 05:09 PM

thank you for the info

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