The swamp side-neck tortoise and the West African side-neck tortoise are both tropical tortoise species. Regardless of their appearance or habits, the two tortoises are quite similar. However, there are some aspects that can distinguish them:
1. Size difference: There is a big difference between the size of the swamp side-necked turtle and the West African side-necked turtle. Marsh side-necked turtles will be larger, their adult body length will be between 30-50 cm; West African side-necked turtles are smaller, with a body length of about 20 centimeters. However, this is only the size of adults, and if you want to compare from this aspect, you need to choose two turtles of similar age.
2. The color difference of plastron: Although they have some similarities in appearance, the color of their plastron is different. The color of the plastron of West African side-neck turtles is relatively pale, and their color is generally pale yellow or white. The swamp side-necked turtle's plastron is darker, brown or brown-black in adult color. Although the swamp side-necked turtle is lighter in plastron color when young, it is still darker than the West African side-necked turtle.
3. Difference of distribution area: The distribution area of the two is also different. West African side-necked turtles are mainly distributed in some countries in West Africa, such as Angola, the Republic of Congo and so on, which is also the reason for their name. The swamp turtle is mainly distributed in some countries in southern Africa, as well as the island of Madagascar.
The swamp side neck turtle and the West African side neck tortoise can be raised together, and generally there will be no conflict. However, considering their adult size is still relatively large, so the space should be sufficient. Moreover, when feeding, we should pay attention to the need to feed them separately and provide enough food in order to avoid fighting.
