StonebackTortoises
Conservation profileRare

Astrochelys yniphora

Ploughshare Tortoise

One of the world’s rarest tortoises, shown here for conservation education only and never offered for sale.

Protected speciesNot for saleNot offered for sale
Found in
Baly Bay, Madagascar
Conservation
Critically Endangered
Adult size
Up to 45 cm adult shell
Lifespan
50+ years
Experience
Conservation institutions only
Climate
Dry bamboo scrub
Read the CITES statement

This species is presented for conservation education only. We do not accept purchase or availability enquiries for it.

Conservation noticeAppendix I

Not for sale or private enquiry. Madagascar prohibits commercialization of its protected endemic tortoises, and the Ploughshare has been listed in CITES Appendix I since 1975.

Read the CITES statement →
Meet the species

Why it needs protection.

The ploughshare tortoise lives in a tiny part of Madagascar and is at serious risk from illegal trade. Its rarity is a reason to protect it, not a reason to own it.

Private ownership

A protected wild species, not a private pet or commercial listing.

The right home

What this tortoise needs.

Protected natural habitat and professionally managed conservation centres.

Accredited institutions only

Support habitat protection

Report suspicious sales

Protected species

Admire it. Never buy it.

Illegal collection and trafficking are among the threats facing the Ploughshare. Treat any private sale offer as suspicious and report it to the relevant wildlife authority.

Read the CITES statement