Turtles and soft-shelled turtles are both common aquatic reptiles that share similarities in many ways, but have distinct differences in some key characteristics. In this paper, we will make a detailed comparison between turtles and soft-shelled turtles in terms of appearance, living habits, distribution area and nutritional value.
1. Appearance. The most obvious difference in appearance between turtles and soft-shelled turtles is their heads and limbs. Turtles have comparatively smaller heads and shorter, cylindrical limbs, whereas soft-shelled turtles have larger heads and longer limbs that are flattened. In addition, the shell of a turtle is usually harder and round or oval in shape, while the shell of a soft-shelled turtle is relatively soft and flattened.
2. Habits.
Turtles and soft-shelled turtles also differ in their living habits. Turtles usually prefer to inhabit freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and rivers, where they like to swim and forage in the water. Soft-shelled turtles, on the other hand, prefer to inhabit saltwater environments, such as coastal areas and estuaries, and are good at digging holes in the mud and sand. In addition, turtles have a wide range of diets and eat both plants and animals, while soft-shelled turtles feed mainly on benthic organisms.
3. Distribution area.
Turtles and soft-shelled turtles also differ in their distribution areas. Turtles are widely distributed across the globe, from tropical to temperate regions. Soft-shelled turtles, on the other hand, are mainly found in the coastal areas of Asia, Africa and the Americas, as well as in some inland rivers and lakes.
Fourth, nutritional value.
Turtles and soft-shelled turtles also differ in terms of nutritional value. Turtle meat is delicious and rich in nutrients such as protein, minerals and vitamins, and has the effects of nourishing and strengthening, nourishing yin and quenching thirst. The soft-shelled turtle is considered to have higher nutritional value, its meat is delicate, delicious, rich in protein, fat, minerals and vitamins and other nutrients, with the effect of nourishing yin and nourishing the kidney, clearing heat and detoxifying.
Although turtles and soft-shelled turtles are both aquatic reptiles, they have obvious differences in appearance, living habits, distribution areas and nutritional value. Understanding these differences helps us better understand these two animals and make more informed choices when it comes to keeping and eating them.