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The Galapagos Giant TortoiseThere are 15 sub-species of Galapagos giant tortoises. Some prefer the upland zones of the large islands because of humidity, grassy pastures and small ponds to drink and stagger about. Others prefer islands with low elevations, dry terrain, and with lots of prickly vegetation like cactus. The largest populations are found in Alcedo Volcano on Isabela Island, and in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
Galapagos Giant Tortoise 
These patterns were crucial in showing Charles Darwin that different habitats allowed different versions of animals to thrive and evolve (over time) into new species. The Galapagos Governor, in fact, told Darwin that tortoises with long necks are mostly found in islands that are quite dry and with cacti as the predominant plant. The Pacific Green Sea Turtle also calls Galapagos home. It has a flatter, more streamlined shell. Among turtles is the fastest and can swim, briefly, at a speed of 20 miles (32km) per hour. There's always controversy about using the terms tortoise and turtle. But, their definition is based on the habitat where the animals live, animals that are mostly aquatic (like sea turtles) should be called turtles, while animals that are mostly terrestrial should be called tortoises, like the "Galapagos tortoise". This doesn't mean that either one never goes on land or water. In fact, turtles have to go to land to lay eggs, and Galapagos giant tortoises go to the water for drinking and cooling off. The difference relies in where animals spend most of their time. More about the Galapagos Tortoise here Terrapins do not live here. Turtles and relatives are not only complex, but also fascinating in their distribution and evolutionary biology. Recommended Galapagos Reading:An Identification Guide to the Birds, Mammals, and Reptiles of the Galpagos Islands This is the first comprehensive guide to the unique wildlife of the Galapagos, encompassing the birds, mammals, and reptiles a visitor to these extraordinary islands might encounter.Galapagos: Islands Born of Fire This book is elegantly structured: each chapter emphasizes one distinct aspect of the Galapagos with stunning pictures of its Wildlife, Geology and Vegetation. It is truly a wonderful and inspiring photo book. (Highly recommended!) If you have any questions about the Galapagos giant tortoise or if you need assistance to book a quality cruise or land tour to Galapagos, Please Click here to contact us
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The Galapagos giant tortoise keep growing for 30 or 40 years to almost 5 feet (1.5 m.) and weigh about 500 pounds (230 kg).
