As @maggie3fan stated above, it is an older Russian tortoise that a good soaking and cleaning would also help us see what is going on better. I think what you are referring to is that apparent "cracks" forming around each scute. IF that is new, it would be new growth, As the bone below grows - it pulls the scutes apart slightly. This stimulates new kerating to grow and fill in the gap. With proper hydration the keratin will fill and swell and create a lighter colored band around each scute - which is the normal growth we see in growing tortoises.if anyone has the time to look at the attached photo, i would appreciate it