The National Aquarium is OPEN. As a private nonprofit organization, we are not impacted by the government shutdown.
Wallpaper Wednesdays: Sea Turtle Trivia
Sea turtles' shells are complex, fascinating structures. Learn some basic facts and keep turtles top-of-mind by downloading our latest wallpaper image.
- Multimedia •
- Animals
Freshen up your home screen with our one-of-a-kind wallpaper featuring a close-up of a rescued loggerhead's carapace.
Mobile & Desktop Devices Carapace Close-Up
The topside of a sea turtle's shell is called the carapace. In all species except leatherbacks, the outermost layer of the carapace is made up of fused keratin plates called scutes, which vary in shape, color and pattern. This carapace belongs to a rescued loggerhead receiving care at the Aquarium.