Gopher Tortoise Burrow Ecosystems: Where Reptiles and Insects Coexist
Deep in the sandy soils of the southeastern United States, an ancient reptile engineers one of nature’s most surprising biodiversity hotspots. The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is more than just a solitary shelled wanderer. With powerful forelimbs adapted for digging, it creates elaborate underground burrows that shelter not just itself, but hundreds of other species. ...