What Are the Different Types of Turtle Species?
A turtle is a reptile that can live either on land or in the water and are distinguished from other reptiles by its bony shells. There are more than 400 known turtle species in the world that are typically divided into several different categories based on the type of neck and the primary habitat. Turtle species can be classified as side necked Pleurodiras or hidden necked Cryptodiras. Additionally, turtle species are categorized as semi terrestrial (land and water dwelling) or aquatic (water dwelling). Aquatic turtles live either in fresh or salt water. Small turtles, particularity Russian tortoises and Red-eared sliders, are commonly kept as pets in the United States. The difference between the Pleurodira and Cryptodira turtle species involves how the reptile defends itself. A Pleurodira turtles will move its neck and head to one side of its bodies, hiding under the outer lip of their shells. In contrast, a Cryptodira turtle will retract its head and neck back into its shell when thr
