Sea turtles

The sea turtles are fascinating creatures that have existed on our planet for millions of years. Over time, these creatures have captured the attention and curiosity of scientists, biologists, and nature lovers alike. Although they are magnificent animals, these species face many challenges in their natural environment and their existence is threatened due to human activity and climate change.

The turtles are reptiles distinguished by their scaly skin. They reproduce by laying eggs on land and have a bony or cartilaginous structure developed from the rib cage, which serves as protection and is composed of the carapace or shell on the dorsal side and the plastron or breastplate on the ventral side.

How many species of sea turtles are there?

There are seven turtle species sea turtles worldwide: the olive ridley turtle, the green turtle, the green turtle o leatherback turtle, the leatherback turtle, the flat turtle, the Kemp's ridley turtle o hawksbill turtle y loggerhead turtle . All these species are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and pollution.

In this article, we will explore the life of sea turtles, their role in marine ecosystems, and the threats they face. We will also discuss what we can do to help protect these endangered creatures.

Types of sea turtles

We have developed a series of articles on the different species of sea turtles:

Sea turtle life cycle

The life cycle of a sea turtle is a fascinating process consisting of three main stages: feeding, migration, and reproduction. These stages repeat periodically throughout their lives and are closely linked to the different habitats they frequent.

Feeding

Sea turtles have varied diets depending on the species, and their diets change as they develop. Hatchlings mainly feed omnivorously at the surface during their first oceanic phase, while juveniles and sub-adults move to shallow coastal areas in search of food, where food is more abundant. These areas are usually continental shelf zones or neritic habitats.

Migration

The migration phase is another stage in the life of sea turtles. During this phase, turtles can travel long distances to find new feeding habitats or to reproduce on nesting beaches. During these migrations, turtles may face dangers such as accidental capture in fishing gear or boat strikes.

Reproduction

Finally, the reproduction phase is a crucial stage in the life of sea turtles. During this phase, females head to nesting beaches where they lay their eggs. They choose beaches with sand conditions suitable for egg incubation. The hatchlings emerge on the beach and must make their own journey to the sea to begin their life cycle.

Where do sea turtles live?

They live in all the world's oceans, from the warm waters tropical cold waters to the Arctic. They spend most of their lives in the water but come ashore to lay their eggs.

They spend most of their lives in the ocean but also have a special connection to the beaches where they were born. It is on these beaches that sea turtles return every year to nest and lay their eggs.

Sometimes sea turtles can live in various marine habitats, from coral reefs to bays and estuaries. However, it is during the nesting season that sea turtles visit the beaches specific to where they were born. These beaches are extremely important for the survival of these species, as they provide a suitable environment for egg incubation and hatchling development.

Why are sea turtles important?

They are a necessary species in the marine ecosystem. Through their feeding they help maintain balance in the ocean by consuming jellyfish and other marine animals. They play an important role in the health of coral reefs, as their grazing activity keeps algae growth in check, which competes with corals.

How are sea turtles born?

Sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach in nests they dig with their hind flippers. After a period of incubation of about 60 days, the hatchlings emerge from the eggs and make their way to the sea. Only a small fraction of the hatchlings survive to adulthood.

How long can sea turtles live?

Sea turtles can live a long time. They can even live up to 80 years in the wild, but their lifespan has been compromised by human activity. Sea turtle care organizations take measures to preserve their habitat and minimize the threats they face to ensure the survival of this species.

What do sea turtles eat?

They are carnivorous animals that feed mainly on algae, jellyfish, crustaceans, crabs, sponges, mollusks, and other marine invertebrates.

Some species of sea turtles, such as the green turtle (Chelonia mydas), have a primarily herbivorous diet and feed on algae and seagrasses. Other species, like the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), are predators that feed mainly on jellyfish.

The diet can also vary depending on their age and size. For example, baby sea turtles young sea turtles usually feed on small invertebrates, while adult turtles can eat larger prey.

What can we do to help sea turtles?

There are many things we can do to help sea turtle.

First of all,  minimize the carbon footprint and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Ocean pollution is a threat, so we must ensure proper waste disposal and avoid throwing trash into the water.

Supporting organizations that work on the conservation of sea turtles and their habitat. These organizations focus on protecting nesting beaches, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and removing marine debris. Donating time, money, or resources can be an effective way to support their work.

Another way we can help is educating others and youth about the importance of sea turtles and the need for their conservation. Sharing information and resources on social media, getting involved in environmental education projects, and promoting sustainable practices can help raise awareness about the importance of preserving this species.

What threats do sea turtles face?

In addition to the specific ways we can help the sea turtles that we saw in the previous section, it is important to understand some of the factors that threaten them and put the endangered turtles. The habitat loss is one of the biggest threats, as many species depend on specific beaches for nesting and specific feeding areas to survive.

Pollution is another significant threat to sea turtles. Marine debris, such as plastics and fishing waste, can harm or kill them when accidentally ingested or when they become entangled; it is sad to see turtles with plastic or other debris. Chemicals and pollutants can affect their health and development, making them more vulnerable to diseases and other threats.

The hunting and overfishing are also threats, especially in some parts of the world where they are considered a food source or a commercial product. They can also get caught in fishing nets and other traps, which can cause serious injuries or death.

Sea turtles migrate long distances

Sea turtles they migrate long distances to nest and feed. Some species migrate up to 2000 km between their feeding area and nesting site.

Body temperature regulation in sea turtles

Sea turtles are poikilothermic or ectothermic, which means their body temperature varies according to the environmental temperature. To keep their bodies functioning, they need to warm themselves in the sun or by contact with warmer elements. Because of this, their geographic distribution is mainly limited to tropical and subtropical waters, and in more temperate waters, they need to absorb solar heat by floating on the surface more often. The exception to this is the leatherback turtle, which can be found in circumpolar waters thanks to a thick layer of fat that insulates it from the cold temperatures of the environment.

Are sea turtles protected by law?

Sea turtles they are protected by law in many countries. It is illegal to hunt, capture, kill, or damage their habitats in most areas.