Qubo

Qubo is a Somali term for animals in the order Testudines, which are reptiles with a hard or leathery shell encasing the body. The shell is not a separate external covering that can be shed; it is fused directly to the spine and ribcage, making it part of the body's structure.

Testudines live in oceans, rivers, swamps, and on land. They are found in many parts of the world, except in extremely cold regions. All species lay eggs on land, even those that live in the sea; for this reason, sea turtles return to beaches to nest.

Body structure

The shell consists of two parts: the upper part covering the back and the lower part covering the belly, connected at the sides. Many species can retract the head, limbs, and tail into the shell when threatened. Sea species have limbs resembling flippers, while land species have thick, sturdy limbs.

Qubo have no teeth; instead they have a hard beak resembling a parrot's, which they use to cut food. Diet varies among species: some eat plants and algae, others feed on fish, jellyfish, crustaceans, and other matter.

Reproduction and lifespan

Females lay eggs in holes dug in soil, then leave. In many species, the sex of hatchlings depends on the temperature of the soil where the egg develops, not on genetics alone. Some species reach lifespans considerably longer than other animals, which complicates calculations of population growth and size.

Conservation status

Many Testudine species have declined in number. Reported causes include hunting for meat, shells, and eggs, loss of beaches where eggs are laid, entanglement in fishing gear, and marine pollution. Many countries and international agreements restrict trade in sea species, and some beaches are managed to protect nesting and reproduction.