Geochelone gigantea
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Aldabra giant tortoise faces ongoing threats from habitat degradation and invasive plant species that alter the natural vegetation composition of its coral atoll home. Human activities including tourism development and infrastructure expansion continue to fragment available habitat. Climate change poses an emerging threat through sea level rise and increased storm intensity, which could inundate low-lying nesting areas and alter the delicate ecosystem balance of Aldabra Atoll.
Habitat
Aldabra giant tortoises inhabit the coral atolls and islands of the Seychelles, primarily on Aldabra Atoll, where they occupy grasslands, scrublands, and coastal areas. They prefer open areas with mixed vegetation including grasses, herbs, and low shrubs, often moving between different habitat zones depending on seasonal food availability.