Green Sea Turtle

The Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) is one of the most widely distributed marine turtles and plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy coastal ecosystems.

Features:

• Largest hard-shelled sea turtle; carapace olive to black. • Named after green-colored body fat beneath carapace. • Juveniles are carnivorous; adults become mainly herbivorous. • Small head, beak-shaped jaws, no visible ears but strong low-frequency hearing and smell. • Lifespan: 60–70 years.

Ecological Role:

Keystone species in tropical marine ecosystems, maintaining seagrass beds and coral reef health.

Distribution:

Found in tropical and subtropical waters across the globe.

Conservation Status (IUCN):

•Global status: Endangered. •Some regional subpopulations (e.g., South Atlantic) show recovery (Least Concern).

Threats:

Habitat destruction, egg poaching, bycatch in fishing, marine pollution, and climate change affecting nesting beaches.

Conservation Efforts:

Legal protection under CITES Appendix I, regional turtle conservation programs, marine protected areas, and community-based nesting beach protection. While regional successes highlight the effectiveness of sustained conservation efforts, the Green Sea Turtle remains globally endangered. Continued protection and international cooperation are vital for ensuring long-term survival