AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The shell has openings between the bony plates, making it much lighter and not as rigid as in other tortoises, and has a flexible bridge (connecting the plastron and carapace) to allow it to be flattened slightly as the tortoise seeks shelter in rock crevices.

Detailed explanation-2: -Pancake tortoises can be preyed upon by mongooses, wild dogs, and humans, but they have a variety of adaptations to help them to stay safe. The lightweight, flat shell allows them to escape danger quickly.

Detailed explanation-3: -This tortoise may look unusual, but it is perfectly adapted to its rocky habitat. With its flat, flexible shell this reptile can squeeze into rocky crevices (great places to hide from predators or cool off during the heat of the day). This tortoise also has strong limbs that it uses to wedge itself into the rocks.

Detailed explanation-4: -Unlike most tortoises that have hard, domed shells, the African pancake tortoise has a thin, flat shell. As a result, the shell (or carapace) does not offer much protection from predators, so pancake tortoises use speed and flexibility to evade danger.

Detailed explanation-5: -The pancake tortoise is classified as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List and listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).