Reptiles represents the first class of vertebrates fully adapted for life in dry places on land. The characters of reptiles are in fact a combination of characters that are found in fish and amphibians on one hand and in  birds and mammals on the other. They are about 7000 species of living reptiles. The study of reptiles are called herpetology (Greek; herpeton, reptiles). Reptiles are abundant in the tropical regions. Very few are found in the colder parts of the temperature region and none in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Most reptiles are carnivorous or insectivores. Tortoises are herbivorous.
Turtle vs Tortoise (Comparison Table - 5 Differences between Turtle and Tortoise)
The names turtles and tortoise are often used interchangeably. However the term turtle is usually applied to the aquatic or semi aquatic forms and tortoise are land dwelling reptiles.
Difference between Turtle and Tortoise (Turtle vs Tortoise) - Comparison table
 Characteristics of Turtle
1. It is an aquatic and marine form.
2. It is comparatively smaller in size.
3. Turtle has heart shaped carapace.
4. Fore and hind limbs are modified into paddles.
5. Head of turtle is partially withdrawn into the shell.
6. Some turtle are flesh eaters.
Example of Turtle: Chelonia mydas is commonly called as green turtle.
Characteristics of Tortoise
1. It is a semi terrestrial and fresh water form.
2. It is usually large in size.
 3. Tortoise bears somewhat ovoid carapace (top    shell).
 4. Fore and hind limbs are not modified into paddles.
 5. Head of the tortoise can be completely withdraw onto the shell.
6. Tortoises are herbivorous. They feed almost entirely on vegetation.
Example of Tortoise: Testudo is common called land tortoise. 

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