Indotestudo elongata

Tortoise table or spacious ground-level terrestrial terrarium; a shaded, secured outdoor enclosure is ideal in a suitably warm, humid climate (protected from predators and escapes).

Favour a large floor area rather than height. Provide numerous hides (wood, plants, leaf piles) and heavily shaded areas, as this species avoids direct light. Dimensions given for one adult; increase for several individuals.

High humidity is essential (tropical forest). Mist, keep a moist substrate and provide a humid microclimate under the hides. Insufficient humidity promotes dehydration and pyramiding of the carapace, especially in juveniles.

A moisture-retaining mix, at a sufficient depth (10–15 cm or more) to let the tortoise burrow. Leaf litter recreates its natural environment and encourages it to explore. Remove droppings and uneaten food to limit mould and parasites.

UVB is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin D3 and mineralisation of the shell. T5 HO 5–6% tube (or equivalent) positioned to create a gradient, with mandatory large shaded areas where the tortoise can escape the light it dislikes. Replace the UVB source per the manufacturer's recommendations (approx. every 6–12 months). Exposure to unfiltered natural sunlight, in an outdoor enclosure, is excellent where the climate allows.

Permanently provide a shallow, clean and stable water dish allowing the tortoise to drink and immerse itself. Regular lukewarm baths recommended (once to several times a week, more often for juveniles) for hydration and transit.

South and Southeast Asia: northeastern India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, southern China and the Malay Peninsula. Inhabits tropical deciduous and evergreen forests, where it seeks out shade and leaf litter.

Omnivore with a frugivorous/herbivorous tendency — Snails, slugs, earthworms; carrion occasionally

Based on fibrous plants (leaves, flowers, edible weeds) and fallen fruit, supplemented by a small share of animal protein (molluscs, occasional carrion). Feed in shaded areas. Supplement with calcium (and a little D3 depending on the UVB). Avoid excess sugary fruit and too much animal protein, a source of kidney problems.

Clutch 2–10 eggs/young. Clutch of 2 to 10 eggs (often 2–4), sometimes with several clutches per year. Courtship stimulated by the rainy season. Incubation of about 90 to 130 days at 28–30 °C depending on temperature and humidity. Female digs a nest; provide a loose, moist substrate suitable for laying.

• Internal parasitism (nematodes, flagellates) very common in wild-caught animals — faecal exam and veterinary deworming on arrival
• Respiratory infections (discharge, noisy breathing) linked to temperatures that are too low or to stress
• Import stress, anorexia and weight loss in newly acquired wild individuals
• Metabolic bone disease and pyramiding of the shell (calcium/D3 deficiency, insufficient UVB, humidity too low)
• Dehydration and kidney disorders / gout (lack of water, excess protein)