lives, normally remaining in the shade. They avoid full sunlight because of the great danger of overheating. Marginated tortoises grow very rapidly. In an ideal biotope, or with good handling, they gain yearly. This quick rate of growth lasts throughout their youth. After the 20th year of life, further growth is minimal. They may live between 100 and 140 years, according to the best estimates of scientists. In captivity Gallery See also List of reptiles of Italy References Bibliography (1996). Turtles and Tortoises: Everything About Selection, Care, Nutrition, Breeding, and Behavior (Complete Pet Owner's Manual). Barron's Educational Series. . (1997). General Care and Maintenance of Popular Tortoises (The Herpetocultural Library Series). Advanced Vivarium Systems. . (1992). Europäische Landschildkröten: Leben - Haltung - Zucht. AVA Agrar Verlag. . (in German). Listed as Species of Less Concern (LR/lc v2.3). External links Characteristics of European tortoises (in German). "Testudo marginata sarda". Testudo (genus) Turtles of Europe Fauna of Greece Fauna of Italy Fauna of the Balkans Reptiles described in 1789 Taxa named by Johann David Schoepff