About Gopherus flavomarginatus Legler, 1959
Taxonomic Naming
The Bolson tortoise has the scientific name Gopherus flavomarginatus Legler, 1959. This species is also commonly called the Mexican giant tortoise, Mexican gopher tortoise, yellow-bordered tortoise, or yellow-margined tortoise.
Species Classification
It is a North American tortoise species.
Size Characteristics
Among the six recognized North American tortoise species, the Bolson tortoise is the largest, with an average carapace length of approximately 46 cm (18 in).
Native Distribution
This species is native to the Bolsón de Mapimí region of the Chihuahuan Desert, which sits in north-central Mexico.