Description and systematics Hermann's tortoise

in 2006, hermann s tortoise suggested moved genus eurotestudo , bring subspecies rank of species (eurotestudo hermanni , eurotestudo boettgeri). though factors indicate might correct, data @ hand not unequivocally in support , relationships between hermann s , russian tortoise among each other , other species placed in testudo not robustly determined. hence, seems doubtful new genus accepted now. elevation of subspecies full species tentatively rejected under biological species concept @ least, there still seems significant gene flow.

of note, rate of evolution measured mutations accumulating in mtdna differs markedly, eastern populations having evolved faster. apparently due stronger fragmentation of population on mountainous balkans during last ice age. while has no profound implications taxonomy of species, apart suggesting 2 other proposed subspecies local forms @ present, renders use of molecular clocks in testudo more dubious , unreliable turtles in general.

t. h. hermanni

the subspecies t. h. hermanni includes former subspecies t. h. robertmertensi , has number of local forms. has highly arched shell intensive coloration, yellow coloration making strong contrast dark patches. colors wash out in older animals, intense yellow maintained. underside has 2 connected black bands along central seam.

the coloration of head ranges dark green yellowish, isolated dark patches. particular characteristic yellow fleck on cheek found in specimens, although not in all; t. h. robertmertensi name of morph prominent cheek spots. generally, forelegs have no black pigmentation on undersides. base of claws lightly colored. tail in males larger in females , possesses spike. generally, shell protecting tail divided. few specimens can found undivided shells, similar greek tortoise.

t. h. boettgeri

the subspecies t. h. hercegovinensis, known dalmatian tortoise, (balkans coast) , local t. h. peloponnesica (southwestern peloponnesus coast) included here; constitute local forms not yet geographically or in other ways reproductively isolated , apparently derive relict populations of last ice age. eastern hermann s tortoise has arched, round carapace, notably flatter , more oblong. coloration brownish yellow or greenish hue , isolated black flecks. coloring tends wash out quite in older animals. underside solid horn color, , has separate black patches on either side of central seam.

the head brown black, fine scales. fore legs possess fine scales. limbs have 5 claws, darkly colored @ base. hind legs noticeably thicker fore legs, plump. particularly strong tail ends in spike, may large in older male specimens. females have noticeably smaller tail spikes, bent toward body.