Florida gopher tortoise

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Gopherus polyphemus (commonly known as Florida gopher tortoise) is native to Southeastern United States, primarily Florida, where it inhabits sandy pine flatwoods, coastal dunes, and dry prairies.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Belongs to the family Testudinidae, genus Gopherus. It is a highly protected species under international laws due to severe habitat fragmentation.

Behavior and Habits: Diurnal and strictly terrestrial. It spends the day foraging for grasses, leaves, and low-growing vegetation, resting during midday heat.

Morphology: Adults reach an average size of 30.0 cm. Males feature a concave plastron and a longer tail.

Terrarium Setup: Requires a large enclosure of at least 800 liters with sandy-loam soil and robust hiding places.

Lighting and Heating: Keep daytime ambient temperatures at 15.0-32.0°C, with a basking area at 32.0°C. High UVB is vital.

Humidity and Hydration: Keep humidity levels around 50-70%. Provide a shallow dish with clean water for hydration and bathing.

Feeding and Supplementation: Strictly herbivorous, high-fiber diet based on weeds, hay, and leafy greens. Dust food with calcium powder.

Compatibility: Can be housed in groups containing one male and multiple females if space permits. Avoid male-only groups.

Health and Common Diseases: Susceptible to shell pyramiding if fed high protein, and Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) if UVB exposure is low.