pancake

|
Pancake Specimen
Flat Shell Wonder
Overview
Side Profile
Pattern Detail
Climbing
Group Shot
Batch #PAN-TZ-14 | CITES Appendix II

Pancake
Tortoise

The "Sports Car" of tortoises. Unlike any other species, the Pancake Tortoise possesses a flat, flexible shell designed for speed and agility in rocky terrain. Perfect for terrariums with vertical rockscapes.

Size (SCL) 8cm - 12cm
Origin Captive Bred (CB)
Availability 12 Heads
Unique Trait Flexible Shell
Inquire Pricing

Includes care guide for rock-dwelling species.

Malacochersus tornieri

The Rock Climber

Speed & Agility

Often cited as the fastest tortoise. Their light, flat bodies allow them to sprint into rock crevices when threatened, rather than withdrawing into their shell.

Flexible Design

Unlike typical domed tortoises, the Pancake has a soft, pliable plastron. This allows them to wedge themselves tightly into rock fissures, making extraction by predators nearly impossible.

Kopje Dwellers

Native to the rocky outcrops (kopjes) of Tanzania and Kenya. Their enclosure should reflect this verticality, offering climbing opportunities rather than just flat grazing space.

Specimen Data

Scientific Name Malacochersus tornieri
Pattern Radiating Starburst
Adult Size 15cm - 18cm (Max)
Diet Protocol Dry Grass, Hay, Weeds
Temperament Skittish & Fast
Documents CITES II, Microchip
Husbandry

Specialized Care

Rock Setup

  • Tight Hides They feel secure when wedged tight. Provide flat rocks stacked with narrow gaps rather than cave-style hides.
  • Climbing Opportunities Excellent climbers. Use textured backgrounds or slate rocks to allow vertical movement safely.

Dry Diet

  • High Fiber Essential Dried grasses and hay should form the bulk. Avoid watery vegetables like lettuce or cucumber entirely.
  • Calcium Due to their unique shell structure, they need high calcium intake to prevent metabolic bone disease.
Pancake Pricing

Value by Size

Size Class Carapace Length Price Range (USD)
Baby / Juvenile 5cm - 8cm $350 - $500
Sub-Adult / Adult 9cm - 14cm $600 - $900

*Prices exclude shipping & CITES permit fees.