Turtles (Testudines) have captivated evolutionary biologists for decades due to their distinct morphology and ancient origins. Recent studies have elucidated the evolutionary transformations that led ...

In vertebrates, the formation of feathers, hair, and scales is typically governed by molecular genetic factors. However, crocodile head scales are an exception, as they form through a purely ...

Turtles are famous for their shells, but this feature is far more than a protective covering. A turtle’s shell is actually ...

Cartoons often suggest turtles wear shells like removable armor. Those stories show turtles stepping out, swapping shells, or ...

It's a long-held idea that turtles can tuck their heads into their shells when threatened. But is it true? And is this protective trick why turtles the world over have shells today? The answer is that ...

Avise, John C., Bowen, Brian W., Lamb, Trip, Meylan, Anne B., and Bermingham, Eldredge. 1992. "Mitochondrial DNA Evolution at a Turtle's Pace - Evidence for Low ...