Some might say they look like some sort of mythical magical creature. Others will remember Koopa Paratroopas from the Mario Brothers video games, or perhaps a combination of Charizard and Squirtle from Pokémon.

Regardless of what you first thought, we can assure you that these are real, real, living animals. Although we refer to them as albino turtles, the more accurate term would be amelanistic turtles, because it is the melanin pigment that they like the most.

Amelanism vs Albinism

Albinism is a pigmentation spot in the eyes, skin and sometimes hair. It can occur in humans and other mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and amphibians. Albinism is characterized by a completely white appearance and red eyes.

Amelanism is the complete set of pigments or melanin. This condition occurs in fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Usually a pigment will still be present, so amelanistic animals may have yellow or red markings. His eyes will also be red.

What is melanin?

Melanin is the compound responsible for the color of skin, hair, feathers, scales, and eyes. It plays an important role in protecting humans and animals from the sun’s UV rays. Without it, these rays can much more easily damage the DNA of cells and cause diseases such as cancer.

Amelanism is much more common in reptiles, such as turtles, than albinism, however it is still extremely serious. Albinism or amelanism will present differently depending on the turtle species. For example, sulcata tortoises are more likely to have albinism, although they still will not be 100% white. (3) Amelanistic painted wood turtles are more likely to have the beautiful flame-like pattern mentioned above.

Therefore, as small as these animals are, their special appearance means that they probably won’t last long in life. Not only are they more susceptible to illness and disease, but they are also easily detected by writers. Like humans with albinism, they also often have poor eyesight, making staying safe and well fed an additional challenge.

Lastly, if they survive to reproductive age, they are often considered undesirable as a mate and therefore unlikely to reproduce. Of course, this is because they have a higher chance of producing amelanistic offspring, which, as we know, is not a benefit for winged animals.

Albino turtles do not make good pets.

These special turtles require much more time, attention and care than other animals. They are best left at home (despite their low survival rates) or at an animal sanctuary under the care of professionals. They often have other health complications that are almost impossible for a normal person to care for.

An example of this is Hope, the albino turtle, who was born with her heart outside her shell. Under the expert care of her owner Mike, she has not only improved, but is thriving. Living up to her name, she spreads messages of hope and love to children and adults around the world who are going through major heart problems, surgeries and trauma.