Instructions
Examine the shell. On aquatic turtles, the shell will be flatter, more streamlined, and often times smooth. On some aquatic turtles, like diamondbacks, there will be several ridges in the middle of the shell. On land, or terrestrial turtles, the shells will resemble a dome and are much taller and more rounded.
Check the legs. Aquatic turtles have short, stubby legs that are not useful for locomotion on land. Land turtles, however, will have much longer legs that form half-U shapes as they emerge from their shells and touch the ground.
Look at the feet. Aquatic turtles often have long claws, and some species even have webbed feet, which are excellent for burrowing. Land turtles have claws, but they're short and stubby; good for gripping the ground as they walk.
Note the animal's diet. Water turtles are omnivorous, but spend a lot of time eating fish and insects and rarely eat plants. Land turtles, however, are mostly vegetarians, eating fruits and vegetables, only occasionally eating something like earthworms or grubs.
How to Tell an Aquatic Turtle From a Land Turtle
In the world of turtles, there are two primary types: aquatic turtles and land turtles. Both vary widely and can be found all over the globe, and in most pet shops. Before buying a turtle, you must understand the fundamental differences between these two factions of turtles, for not only do they contrast in physical appearance, but in their lifestyles and what it takes to keep them healthy and happy in captivity. Luckily, telling an aquatic turtle from a land turtle is relatively straightforward and requires only a quick examination.