Green turtle: habitat, threats and conservation measures

The green turtle is one of the most endangered turtle species in the world and is on the Red List of Endangered Species. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the green turtle habitat, threats, and conservation measures.

Habitat and conditions

The green turtle is a marine inhabitant and lives mainly in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic and Pacific. It prefers shallow waters where it can feed on algae and seaweed. The green turtle spends most of its life in the water and only comes to the surface to breathe.

The green turtles depend on a certain temperature in order to survive. The sand on which they lay their eggs must be at a certain temperature to promote the growth of the eggs. Ambient temperature also influences the sex of the turtles, with higher temperatures more likely to produce female turtles.

Threats

The green turtle is endangered by a variety of threats. One of the biggest threats is habitat loss. The destruction of beaches and the construction of harbors and hotels has left many turtles unable to find suitable places to lay their eggs. In addition, light pollution from artificial light sources affects the turtles' orientation on the way to the sea.

Another problem is the fishermen's nets in which the turtles are caught. The turtles get caught in the nets and can drown. Some fisheries have already started using special nets that offer turtles an escape route.

Climate change also affects the lives of green turtles. As sea levels rise, many of the beaches where turtles lay their eggs may become flooded. In addition, increasing water temperature has an impact on egg development and turtle sex distribution.

Protective measures

Many protective measures have already been taken to preserve the green turtle. Creating marine protected areas is one way to protect turtle habitat. Boating and fishing are not permitted in these areas to preserve the turtle habitat. In many countries, protected areas have already been established to ensure the conservation of green turtles.

Another measure is to monitor nesting sites and set up enclosures to protect the eggs. In these enclosures, the eggs are protected from predators and allowed to develop in a controlled environment. After hatching, the young animals are released back into the sea.

Educating the population about the threat to the green turtle and setting up visitor centers also helps to increase awareness of the turtle's protection. Through environmental education and the use of information materials, tourists and residents can be motivated to work to protect the green turtle.

Another important measure is reducing the use of plastic products and introducing recycling programs. The green turtles often mistake plastic waste for food and ingest it. This leads to a blockage in the digestive tract and can lead to a painful death. By reducing the use of plastic products and implementing recycling programs, we can help reduce the threat to green turtles.

Conclusion

The green turtle is a critically endangered species and it is important that we take care of its protection. The green turtle plays an important role in the marine ecosystem and contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. By protecting habitat and reducing threats, we can help ensure green turtle conservation.

It is important that we realize that our actions have an impact on nature. Through our actions, we can help reduce threats to the green turtle and protect its habitat. If we work together to protect the green turtle, we can help ensure that this fascinating species will continue to be found in our seas in the future.