| Brazilian chelonians belong to the following families: Testudinidae (tortoises), Chelidae, Emydidae, Pelomedusidae, Kinostemidae (turtles and terrapins). Many species belonging to these families are kept in domestic captivity and need appropriate management, including nutrition provided by feed formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of each species. By doing so, one can prevent several diseases induced by inadequate management, such as the frequent shell deformities and vitamin deficiencies, especially those regarding vitamin A. The need to preserve these animals as well as their ecosystem is also stressed. |
