Sea turtle | Facts & Information

Sea turtle

The Green Sea Turtle is one of the most fascinating and remarkable aquatic animals. Also known as Chelonia mydas in scientific terms, it belongs to the Cheloniidae family and stands out for its impressive appearance and delicate behavior. Green Sea Turtles can be found in oceans around the world, with their main habitat consisting of coral reefs and marine vegetation.

The physical appearance of the Green Sea Turtle is particularly attractive. These animals have a green-olive shell, which offers excellent camouflage in the marine environment. The shell is characterized by its hardness and resistance, providing protection against predators and environmental factors. Another distinctive feature of these animals is the absence of teeth, which are replaced by well-developed beaks that allow them to feed on algae and marine plants.

Green Sea Turtles are also known for their impressive size. They can reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters and weigh around 200 kilograms. However, there are smaller specimens, especially among juveniles. Sexual dimorphism is present in Green Sea Turtles as well, with males being smaller and lighter than females.

Another important aspect of Green Sea Turtles is their way of life. They are amazing animals with an extremely complex life cycle. After the female lays her eggs, they are buried in the warm sand of beaches to develop. The incubation period can last between 45 and 70 days, after which the hatchlings emerge from the eggs and migrate to the water.

Migration is a crucial moment in the life of Green Sea Turtles. They have to travel from the beaches where they were born to the coral reefs where they will spend most of their lives. This migration is a true test of survival, as Green Sea Turtles face multiple dangers along the way. Apart from predator attacks, such as sharks and seabirds, they are also vulnerable to marine pollution and illegal fishing.

In terms of diet, Green Sea Turtles are omnivorous animals, feeding on both marine plants such as algae and marine invertebrates such as jellyfish and mollusks. This diversified diet provides them with the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and grow properly.

Due to their importance in marine ecological balance, Green Sea Turtles are protected by law in many countries. By conserving their natural habitat and implementing protective measures, efforts are being made to reduce the dangers these wonderful animals are exposed to. With the increasing awareness of the importance of preserving marine biodiversity, it is hoped that Green Sea Turtles will be protected and conserved in the long term.

The Green Sea Turtle is a magnificent creature that offers us a unique perspective on the diversity and fragility of the marine world. By understanding the behavior and needs of these animals, we can contribute to the preservation and protection of the marine ecosystems in which they live. Appreciation and respect for these wonderful species help us to connect more deeply with the marine environment and recognize the importance of conserving biodiversity for future generations.