Turtles and tortoises belong to the family Chelonii. In general, “turtle” is used to define water-loving members of the group. The dome-shaped, land-based chelonians are frequently referred to as tortoises. These differences explained, the entire group boasts some exceedingly odd traits. Chelonians may resemble a shellfish, but unlike the inert calcium carbonate shell of oysters, their carapace is actually a complex bone structure that evolved from their ancestors’ rib cage structures.
Odder still is the lack of a diaphragm for breathing. As a result, turtles cannot cough, making them vulnerable to infection. Vocal cords are absent, but hissing and bellowing sounds can be produced by air pressure in many species. Finally, certain species attract their prey by using their tongue as a wormlike lure. These ancient creatures offer a true multitude of novel and bizarre characteristics.
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