Turtles can live long due to their slow metabolism, ability to protect themselves from predators, and efficient cell regeneration capacity.
Turtles possess specific genes that significantly enhance their DNA repair, thereby reducing the accumulation of age-related genetic defects. Some genes also limit chronic inflammation, a key factor in aging for many other animals. Their cells tend to enter senescence late, allowing them to avoid age-related diseases, such as cancer, for a long time. They also have a particularly resilient immune system, genetically equipped to effectively cope with various environmental and biological stresses over the very long term.
Turtles have a particularly slow metabolism, which means they expend little energy daily. This metabolic slowness reduces the amount of oxidative stress, a phenomenon responsible for cell aging. The less cells undergo this kind of stress, the longer they remain in good condition. They also produce less metabolic waste, which limits damage to their tissues and organs in the long term. Thanks to this tranquil pace, their bodies wear out much more slowly. The result: a long lifespan and a significantly slowed aging process compared to many other animals.
Turtles have a robust shell, a true natural shield that effectively protects them against predators and accidents. Their resilient shell allows for a more peaceful life, logically leading to a longer lifespan. These reptiles also experience a slow growth that spreads their maturation over several years, thus avoiding the rapid aging associated with the accelerated growth of some species. Moreover, their bodies have developed a remarkable ability to repair damaged DNA, greatly limiting cellular aging. Finally, turtles have a high tolerance for lack of oxygen (hypoxia), meaning they better withstand extreme situations that could be fatal for other animals.
Turtles living in protected habitats, away from predators and human threats, can live longer. Less stress and external aggression also mean better energy dedicated to maintaining their bodies in good condition rather than healing wounds or constantly fleeing. A stable and nutrient-rich diet in their natural environment also provides them with what they need to maintain their bodies in the long term. In contrast, turtles living in polluted or threatened areas often see their life expectancy drop rapidly. A quiet and healthy environment makes a huge difference.
The turtle's shell is not just a simple shell. It is made up of more than 60 different bones connected to the spine and ribs, forming a true organic armor!
The temperature of the sand where a sea turtle egg is buried can determine the sex of the baby. Warmer temperatures tend to produce females, while cooler temperatures favor the emergence of males.
Turtles have an exceptionally robust heart that is tolerant to low oxygen levels due to their slowed metabolism, allowing them to survive for several hours without breathing, and even for several months during hibernation underwater or buried underground in cold periods.
One of the remarkable keys to the longevity of tortoises lies in their extraordinary resistance to cancer cells, a phenomenon that is currently being extensively studied by science in the medical field.
Sure! Here’s the translation: "Yes, several environmental threats can reduce their lifespan, such as ocean pollution, the destruction of their natural habitats, climate change, and illegal hunting. These threats can significantly decrease their natural life expectancy."
Among the documented cases, a Seychelles giant tortoise named Jonathan holds the longevity record with an estimated age of around 190 years. Some Galápagos giant tortoises have also reached comparable ages.
Determining the precise age of a turtle is complex, especially in mature adult individuals. Scientists generally estimate their age by examining the wear on their shells, analyzing bone samples, or using more recent genetic analysis techniques.
In general, domestic turtles tend to live shorter lives than their wild counterparts, due to an environment that is often less suitable. However, with proper care, a balanced diet, and optimal conditions, some domestic turtles can also live for several decades.
The maturity of turtles strongly depends on the species; some small species reach adulthood between 5 and 10 years, while giant species take 20 to 40 years to reach maturity and then practically stop growing.
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