If you are a new tortoise owner and don’t know the specific tortoise species identification – then having this question “What kind of tortoise do I have?” is no wonder. Identifying tortoise species is essential for a pet owner, to take care of them accordingly. It means identifying tortoises helps owners know what to feed, how to care for them, and how to provide the best environment for their pets. Everyone who has a tortoise pet or a hobbyist, or works in conservation needs to know about tortoise species. From shell shape to other behavioral clues can help you to get the answer  “What kind of tortoise do I have?” Let’s check out what you’ll need to know to identify the right kind of tortoise. What Are The Basic Physical Characteristics for Tortoise Species Identification? Identifying tortoise species often starts with morphological characteristics. You can take a look at the following clues: Shell Shape and Texture In most cases, you can distinguish species by looking at the shape and texture of the tortoise’s shell. For example, desert tortoises have thick, dome-shaped shells that protect them from predators and harsh conditions. Like angulate tortoises, South African tortoises have high-domed shells with