The turtle shell is a shield for the ventral and dorsal parts of turtles (the order Testudines), completely enclosing all the turtle's vital organs and in some cases even the head. [1]

Apr 30, 2025 · The shell of a turtle covers the outside of the skeleton, growing over the top of a very thin layer of subcutaneous tissue, or skin. It consists of dozens of scale-like plates, called scutes. These …

Turtle shells are made of bone and cartilage, but it is the form and function of the shells that make them unique in the animal kingdom. The top part of the shell is called the carapace while the underside is …

Nov 10, 2025 · The turtle’s shell is a remarkable structure – essentially a part of the turtle’s skeleton turned inside-out. The carapace (upper shell) and plastron (lower shell) are made of bone and …

Oct 29, 2025 · One of the most apparent reasons a turtle has a shell is to protect them from outside elements. A turtle shell is solid and made of hard material to protect its body from harm.

Dec 8, 2025 · Turtles and tortoises have a carapace (the top or dorsal shell) and a plastron (the bottom or ventral shell), both of which should always be hard (unless it is a hatchling turtle or a species of …

Oct 8, 2025 · Turtles’ shells, which are actually a part of their skeletal system, serve a crucial protective function. They evolved from ribs and parts of the turtle’s skin, providing an external shield against …