Rare Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Tortoises are reptiles belonging to the Testudinidae family of the Testudines order (from the Latin name for tortoise).

They differ from other turtles (which include the order Chelonia) in that they are completely land-dwelling, whereas many (though not all) other turtle species are somewhat aquatic.

One explanation for why these creatures live so long is that they have a slow development rate. Turtles and tortoises develop at a slower rate than birds and mammals. They have a sluggish metabolism, which permits them to go without food or water for lengthy periods of time.

Another reason these animals live such long lives might be due to their way of living.