The query of whether or not Centrochelys sulcata (African spurred tortoise) ought to devour the fruit of the Malus domestica (apple tree) is a typical one amongst keepers. Whereas readily consumed, apples current sure dietary issues for this grazing herbivore.
Apples are comparatively excessive in sugars and lack the fiber content material essential for optimum digestive operate in sulcata tortoises. Common consumption could disrupt the fragile stability of their intestine flora and will result in well being points over time. Traditionally, tortoises, and significantly grazing species such because the sulcata, developed to thrive on a food plan consisting primarily of grasses, weeds, and fibrous vegetation. Deviation from this pure dietary template can negatively influence long-term wellbeing.