Sea turtle

Chelonia mydas is going for the air edit

Protostega gigas

Erpétologie générale, ou, Histoire naturelle complète des reptiles (Dermochelys coriacea)

Erpétologie générale, ou, Histoire naturelle complète des reptiles (Chelonia mydas)

Life Cycle of a Sea Turtle

Turtle golfina escobilla oaxaca mexico claudio giovenzana 2010

Sea turtles, also known as marine turtles, are a group of reptiles that inhabit the world's oceans. These ancient creatures are distinguished by their large, streamlined shells and non-retractable heads. There are seven species of sea turtles, which vary in size, diet, and habitat. They play vital roles in marine ecosystems, contributing to the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs. Despite their ecological importance, sea turtles face numerous threats from human activities, leading to all species being listed under some degree of protection.

Species

The seven species of sea turtles are:

• Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
• Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
• Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
• Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
• Kemp's Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
• Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
• Flatback sea turtle (Natator depressus)

Habitat and Distribution

Sea turtles are found in all the world's oceans except for the polar regions. Their habitats range from the open sea to coastal areas, including lagoons, estuaries, and coral reefs. Some species, like the green sea turtle, are primarily found in shallow, coastal waters, while others, such as the leatherback, are highly pelagic, spending most of their lives in the open ocean.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a sea turtle is complex and involves long migrations between feeding grounds and nesting sites. Females return to the beaches where they were born to lay their eggs, a phenomenon known as natal homing. After incubation, hatchlings emerge and make their way to the sea, facing numerous predators. Sea turtles reach sexual maturity after several years to decades, depending on the species. Their longevity is not well-documented but is believed to be over 50 years for many species.

Diet

Sea turtles have varied diets based on their species. Green sea turtles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on seagrass and algae. Loggerheads consume a wide range of prey, including invertebrates like crabs and mollusks. Leatherbacks specialize in eating jellyfish, and their diet helps control jellyfish populations.

Conservation Status

All species of sea turtles are listed under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with statuses ranging from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered. Major threats include habitat loss, pollution, accidental capture in fishing gear (bycatch), climate change, and illegal trade of turtle products. Conservation efforts include protecting nesting beaches, regulating fisheries, and international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Cultural Significance

Sea turtles hold significant cultural and spiritual value in many cultures around the world. They are featured in folklore, art, and religion, symbolizing longevity, endurance, and the journey of life.

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