CheloniansTraits: a comprehensive trait database of global turtles and tortoises

Abstract

Abstract Turtles and tortoises (chelonians) possess a variety of ecological characteristics, including long lifespans and protective shells, which have enabled them to survive and adapt to environmental challenges since the Triassic period. However, many characteristics of chelonians have turned into disadvantages for their populations in the Anthropocene. Currently, there remains a lack of comprehensive data on the morphological, life-history, and ecological characteristics of all chelonians on a global scale. Consequently, our study aims to collect a complete trait database of global chelonians (CheloniansTraits), which may help bridge the knowledge gap regarding the identity and ecology of global chelonians and thereby aiding future conservation endeavors. We compiled 69 trait data for all 358 recognized chelonian species, utilizing ~2,000 literature sources, covering 33 morphological, 21 life-history, 7 ecological traits, and 8 conservation information. This database serves as a uniquely valuable resource for exploring evolutionary, biogeographical, and ecological inquiries related to chelonians, as well as elucidating key aspects of ecological strategy variation among species.