Why do Eastern Box Turtles have so many variations in shell patterns?
Phenomenon Description: The shells of Eastern box turtles exhibit a wide variety of color and pattern variations within the same species. The Eastern box turtle is our state reptile and is found throughout the state.
Location: Eno River State Park, Durham, NC
Grade Level or Course: Grade 7
Question: Why do Eastern Box Turtles have so many variations in shell patterns?
Crosscutting Concepts: Patterns
Science Domain: Life Science
NC Standard: LS.7.2 Understand the relationship of the mechanisms of reproduction, patterns of inheritance, and potential variation among offspring.
NC Objective: LS.7.2.3 Use models (Punnett Squares) to infer and predict patterns of the inheritance of single genetic traits from parent to offspring (including dominant and recessive traits).
Photo: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
Additional Resources:
https://naturalsciences.org/calendar/news/nature-now-thinking-outside-the-box-turtle/
https://askabiologist.asu.edu/games-and-simulations/genetics-game
https://www.ncwildlife.gov/species/eastern-box-turtle