The turtle’s most obvious physical attribute is its shell. Other prehistoric reptiles developed similar shells, but for whatever reason did not survive and diversify in how turtles did. The shell which in most turtles comprises two hard plates, protects the turtle’s vulnerable body from predators, retards desiccation in dry environments, and can even allow the turtle to survive a fire. It can protect against trampling by grazing animals, serve as a weapon during competition for mates, or act…
