Reptile · Tortoise
Elongated tortoise care guide
Indotestudo elongata
The elongated tortoise is a intermediate-level tortoise from South and Southeast Asia. Adults reach 25–30 cm shell and live 40+ years in captivity. Likes a humid forest setup with deep leaf litter and a large shallow water dish.
- Enclosure 180 × 90 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 30–32°C, ambient 25–28°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a elongated tortoise cost in Canada?
Elongated tortoise quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 25–30 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 40+ years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- South and Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 180 × 90 × 60 cm (71 × 35 × 24 in, ≈ 257 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 30–32°C, ambient 25–28°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, occasional earthworms
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Elongated tortoise enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 180 × 90 × 60 cm (71 × 35 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Basking 30–32°C, ambient 25–28°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a elongated tortoise eat?
Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, occasional earthworms. Feed greens daily with some fruit and a protein item weekly.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm and inquisitive; tolerates gentle handling.
Health watch: Respiratory infections, dehydration and parasites in imported animals.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a elongated tortoise bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (180 × 90 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Elongated tortoise FAQ
Is the elongated tortoise good for beginners?
The elongated tortoise is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Calm and inquisitive; tolerates gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a elongated tortoise need?
At least 180 × 90 × 60 cm (about 71 × 35 × 24 inches, roughly 257 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a elongated tortoise cost in Canada?
Typically $400–900 CAD to buy, about $1880–3160 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $400–700 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a elongated tortoise need?
Temperature: Basking 30–32°C, ambient 25–28°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a elongated tortoise eat?
Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, occasional earthworms. Feed greens daily with some fruit and a protein item weekly.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.