Marginated tortoise

[mini_max]

I have a Russian tortoise. I've recently been captivated by some photos I saw of what was referred to as a marginated tortoise, but info seems scarce. Is this species at all part of this group?

 

[Star-of-India]

Marginated tortoises are Mediterranean tortoises closely related to Russians. Not at all closely related to Star tortoises.

 

[mini_max]

Sorry, I meant to say radiated!

 

[HLogic]

Sorry, I meant to say radiated!

...instead of what?

 

[mini_max]

...instead of what?

I meant to ask about radiated tortoises, not marinated.

 

[HLogic]

Radiateds are not part of the Testudo/Mediterranean group. As a general rule, none of the extant species on Madagascar are closely related to species outside of Madagascar with the exception of introduced species and some flying critters.

 

[mini_max]

Sorry, what I am asking is if radiated torts are related to indian stars as they do look a little similar. Im curious if anyone keeps them. I havent found anything on the forum about them.

 

[Star-of-India]

That is convergent evolution and not close relationship occurring between Stars and Radiateds.

 

[HLogic]

Read here: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1055790398905942

 

[mitchellr]

There are sections here that talks specifically about radiateds tortoises.