Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata), Madagascar.
Image: Charles J. Sharp, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
At a glance
- IUCN category
- CR · Critically Endangered
- Animal group
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Population trend
- Decreasing
- Last verified
Conservation overview
The radiated tortoise is a strikingly patterned tortoise from Madagascar, with bright star-like markings on its high-domed shell. It is assessed as Critically Endangered.
Its beauty and rarity have made it a heavy target for traffickers.
Range & habitat
Dry southern Madagascar.
Major threats
Threats below are drawn from the authoritative sources listed on this page. For the current, complete assessment, see the IUCN Red List.
- Poaching for food and the pet trade
- Habitat loss
Why it matters
One of the most beautiful and trafficked tortoises in the world, the radiated tortoise is a flagship against the illegal pet and bushmeat trade in Madagascar.
Gallery
Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata).
Image: Gzen92, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Sources
Sources for Radiated Tortoise
- IUCN Red List — look up Radiated Tortoise (authoritative status)
- Animal Diversity Web
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the radiated tortoise so distinctive?
Why is the radiated tortoise Critically Endangered?
Last updated: