Sea Turtles: Endangered Ocean Survivors

Introduction:

Sea turtles, true survivors of ancient times, have inhabited our oceans for over 150 million years. Having lived through periods of great climatic upheaval and cohabited with creatures that are now extinct, they now face their greatest challenge: the impact of human activities. Six of the seven sea turtle species are now classified as endangered or critically endangered. This article explores the specifics of each species, the threats they face, and the efforts being made to ensure their survival.

Sea Turtle anatomy and adaptations

Contrary to their reputation for slowness, some sea turtles can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h, thanks to their flipper-like front legs and rudder-like hind legs. Their carapace, made of large scales, protects the soft parts of their body, with the exception of the leatherback turtle whose carapace is made of bony plates covered in leather.

 

Sea turtle species

Sea turtles are divided into seven species, all with different characteristics and behaviors. Here are the main characteristics of six threatened species.

The Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

With its greenish cartilage, the green turtle measures up to 1.5 meters and can weigh up to 200 kg. Although widespread in tropical waters, it is currently classified as endangered, as the number of females ready to lay eggs is declining.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

Renowned for its sharp beak and colorful shell, it is unfortunately a victim of hunting for its precious scales. The species is classified as critically endangered, having lost over 80% of its numbers in the last century.

Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

With its domed carapace, this turtle can cover vast distances, but remains vulnerable. Although its overall numbers are significant, it remains classified as vulnerable due to the destruction of its egg-laying sites.

Kemp's ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)

The smallest of all sea turtles, the Kemp's ridley is just 70 cm long and weighs around 40 kg. Restricted to the Gulf of Mexico, its numbers fell drastically in the 20th century, but conservation efforts have stabilized its population.

Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)

With its large head and powerful jaws, it feeds mainly on shellfish. Although widely distributed, it is classified as vulnerable, with around 60,000 females ready to lay eggs.

Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

Imposing and migratory, leatherbacks can weigh up to 500 kg. Unfortunately, it is in rapid decline, with only 34,000 females of laying age.

Laying : A Time of Vulnerability

The turtle egg-laying season is crucial to the survival of the species. Only the females return to the beach, usually at night, to lay their eggs. This makes them vulnerable to predators and human disturbance.

 

Threats: Why are sea turtles in danger?

Sea turtles face a variety of threats that jeopardize their survival and that of their offspring.

Accidental Capture

Every year, hundreds of thousands of sea turtles die trapped in fishing nets. Unable to surface to breathe, they eventually drown. Driftnets and trawls are major threats.

Habitat loss and degradation

Coastal development for tourism and housing destroys spawning beaches and feeding grounds. Light pollution disorients young turtles, so they head for cities instead of the ocean.

Poaching

Demand for turtle products such as meat, eggs and shells fuels poaching. In some regions, turtle eggs are sold as snacks or aphrodisiacs.

Climate change

Rising temperatures affect the sex of turtles at birth, as it is determined by the temperature of the nesting beaches. Warming could cause an imbalance in populations.

Plastic pollution

Turtles often mistake plastic waste for jellyfish, their favorite food, causing them to suffocate. Ghost nets” also pose a danger by immobilizing turtles in the water.

The SeaCleaners website: https://www.theseacleaners.org/fr/la-pollution-plastique/#:~:text=Plus%20d'1%2C5%20million%20of%20marine%20animals%20die,from%20plankton%20to%20big%20pr%C3%A9dators.

Conservation efforts

In the face of the many threats, several international and local initiatives have been set up to protect marine turtles.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

MPAs restrict human activities in certain areas, protecting nesting beaches and feeding grounds.

Breeding and release programs

Captive breeding and release programs have been set up for several endangered turtle species.

Awareness-raising initiatives

Numerous associations, including WWF(www.wwf.fr), are taking action to raise public awareness of the importance of protecting sea turtles.

(Release of baby turtles rescued on the beach in the Pacuare Reserve, Costa Rica)

Conclusion: A Species to Save

Sea turtles are essential to the health of the oceans. Their disappearance would have repercussions for the marine ecosystem as a whole. Their long history of resilience in the face of climate change may not be enough in the face of current human pressure. By supporting protection initiatives, reducing our plastic consumption and committing ourselves to preserving their habitats, we have the power to help these wonderful creatures survive for future generations.