Do turtles shed their shells?

When it comes to turtles, the first image that comes to mind is probably the thick shell on its back, right? There is a common question about turtles and their shells that always makes people laugh and cry: Do turtles change their shells? Today, let us solve this mystery easily and professionally!

First of all, let’s answer this question directly: Turtles don’t change their shells! That’s right, unlike hermit crabs that can change to a larger residence at any time, turtles’ shells are part of their own bodies, and can be said to be their "private mansion" that accompanies them throughout their lives.

So, why do some people mistakenly believe that turtles can change their shells? This starts with the structure of the turtle’s shell. From an zoological point of view, the turtle’s shell is mainly composed of two parts: the carapace (the part on the back) and the plastron (the part on the abdomen). These shells are composed of bones and cuticles, and are closely connected to the turtle’s spine and ribs. This unique structure means that the shell is actually part of the turtle's body, not a removable coat.

Perhaps you are curious, what happens when a turtle grows up? Wouldn't it feel like its "house" is getting crowded? In fact, the shell of a turtle grows synchronously with its growth. Although it does not change its residence like hermit crabs, its shell grows at a very slow rate and gradually expands, ensuring that the turtle always has a "fitting" house.

But interestingly, although turtles do not replace their entire shells, their shell surfaces undergo "renovation" projects. The cuticle of a turtle is regularly shed and renewed, just like our skin peels, but it does not fall off in one piece, but is slowly replaced piece by piece. So sometimes you may see some spots or flakes on the turtle's shell, that is, they are naturally "renovating their house"!

Zoologists have also discovered that turtle shells have many other uses besides protection. For example, the color and texture of turtle shells have a camouflage effect, which can help them avoid predators in the wild. In addition, turtles can use their shells to store some minerals, such as calcium, which allows them to meet their nutritional needs even in periods of food shortage.

The turtle shell is so important that in many cultures, it has become a symbol of longevity, stability and wisdom! But remember that the turtle's shell is not only important but also sensitive. As their owner or friend, never try to knock or forcibly remove it, which is very dangerous for them.

So, next time someone asks, "Do turtles change their shells?" You can confidently tell him: A turtle's shell is a lifelong thing, it will never change, but it will be constantly upgraded and refurbished!

animal tags： turtle