All reptiles breathe oxygen, just like all living things on Earth. But most people are interested in the question of how a turtle breathes underwater. The opinion that the process occurs in the same way as in fish is erroneous. Land and sea inhabitants breathe the same way - through the lungs.
Features of turtle breathing underwater
In order for reptiles to exist under water, it is necessary to make a supply of oxygen. To do this, they crawl out onto land. Beautiful creatures breathe with the help of two types of muscles located on the abdomen. The first type of muscles moves the organs away from the lungs, and the second one brings them back to their original form, while air is produced. With just one good breath of fresh air, a turtle can stay in the water for many hours.
Reptiles have gaskets in their throats and in the anus through which unwanted substances exit. In the same way, oxygen enters the body from water. But this number of turtles is sorely lacking, so they often need to go on land. How a turtle breathes should be known to those who wish to breedthese amazing creatures at home.
Some freshwater animals can stay underwater for days. This is because, without moving, turtles consume a small amount of oxygen. Freshwater creatures with softer shells don't always go to land to replenish their lungs with oxygen. Some species simply stick their heads out of the water.
Turtle species
Ancient reptiles have many varieties, species and subspecies. All are united by one feature - this is the presence of a strong shell, where the turtle hides its head. Freshwater species live in fresh water all their lives, inhabiting swamps, ponds and rivers. They only come out when they need to lay their eggs and get oxygen.
Land representatives live on land. Compared to their counterparts, they are slower, in case of danger they do not flee, but draw their heads into a protective shell. There are no questions about how a turtle that lives on earth breathes. Sea turtles live in s alt water and have certain characteristics.
Freshwater reptiles
This type of turtle feels great in waters with a weak current. Reptiles feed mainly on plant and animal food, which is obtained in the habitat. Fans of exotic reptiles often have them at home. To do this, you must purchase an aquarium. One of the popular species in our country for breeding is the red-eared turtle. If a person decides to get such a beauty fromhome, he needs to know how red-eared turtles breathe, otherwise improper care can lead to the death of a reptile.
Land and land turtles
This type of reptile eats only plant foods. Terrestrial species live near fresh water bodies. They feel great both on land and in water. Land and land species of turtles are distinguished by longevity. Some individuals live up to 150 years old, can do without water and food for quite a long time, while feeling great.
If you want to have a terrestrial beauty at home, then you need to know all the features of the animal: how a turtle breathes, how to feed a pet, where to keep it right. For example, a land individual needs freedom of movement; it cannot be kept in a confined space for a long time. If you often restrict the movement of a pet, then this can lead to the death of a turtle. In captivity, turtles do not tend to hibernate. Yes, this is not necessary, many individuals can die in their sleep.
Sea turtles
Inhabitants of the seas differ from relatives in larger sizes. They thrive in the water and live mostly in warm tropical waters. Many are interested in the question of how sea turtles breathe. Reptiles do not have to leave their usual aquatic environment in order to stock up on air to sustain life. Many species have a fairly long neck. Just stick your head out of the water and make a vital supply. Some species of sea turtles are completely absentshell.
All types of very ancient and amazing turtles are characterized by slow movement on land and excellent vitality. If you decide to have a freshwater turtle, then you just need to find out how to properly feed the animal, how the turtle breathes under water, what needs to be added to the aquarium to ensure a full life for the pet. Proper and thorough care will allow reptiles to live for many years.
