Reproducing Giants: Guest Speaker Stefan Merz Shares His Expertise on Aldabra Tortoise Propagation
Dr. Stefan Merz and wife Ira Merz meeting one of San Diego Zoo’s friendly Galapagos tortoises.
We were delighted to welcome Dr. Stefan Merz from Germany, who holds the distinction of being the sole individual in Europe with a breeding group of Aldabra tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea). Dr. Merz has amassed invaluable expertise in the physiology, behavior, habitat requirements, ecology and reproductive patterns of Aldabra Tortoises through his expeditions to their native island. Back in Germany, Dr. Merz meticulously recreated the natural conditions of Aldabra in a stunning Victorian-style greenhouse. Over the past several years, his efforts have yielded to successfully reproduce the tortoises. We are so grateful to have been able to host Dr. Merz at the Turtle Conservancy and we are deeply honored by his willingness to share his extensive knowledge and achievements with us.
Photos from Dr. Merz expeditions and breeding center/home in Germany
