Sea Turtles: Threats and Conservationfaculty.sdmiramar.edu/faculty/sdccd/alowe... ·...
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Sea Turtles: Threats and Conservation Kaylie Hatcher Sea turtles have been around for nearly 110 million years, being one of the most ancient creatures on Earth. All over the world seven different species still exist. They play important roles in ocean ecosystems, providing nutrients to other species, coral reefs, and beaches. Due to diseases, coastal development, and marine pollution all seven sea turtle species are classified as threatened or endangered. Without strong efforts to help and protect, sea turtles will continue to suffer. Abstract Asma.mahdi. “Entangled Green Sea Turtle | OR&R's Marine Debris Program.” Dianna.parker, 10 July 2013, marinedebris.noaa.gov/entangled-green-sea-turtle. Augliere, Bethany. “The Race to Save Sea Turtles from Deadly Herpes Tumors.” Oceana, oceana.org/blog/ race-save-sea-turtles-deadly-herpes-tumors. “Information About Sea Turtles, Their Habitats and Threats to Their Survival – Sea Turtle Conservancy.” Sea Turtle Conservancy, conserveturtles.org/information-about-sea-turtles-their-habitats-and-threats-to-their- survival/. “Information About Sea Turtles: Threats to Sea Turtles – Sea Turtle Conservancy.” Sea Turtle Conservancy, conserveturtles.org/information-sea-turtles-threats-sea-turtles/. “Longevity & Causes of Death.” Animals: Explore. Discover. Connect., seaworld.org/animals/all-about/sea- turtles/longevity/. “Sea Turtle Threats.” SEE Turtles, SEE Turtles, www.seeturtles.org/sea-turtles-threats. Works Cited Laws National Laws give sea turtles legal protection in the US and the ocean under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. State and local protection such as Florida’s Marine Turtle Protection act protect turtles and their eggs from being taken or sold, destruction, harassment, disturbance, and molestation. All activities regarding sea turtles must be authorized. Costa Rica’s “Protection, Conservation and Recovery Law on sea turtle populations” from 2002 prohibits any trafficking and consumption on sea turtles. Panama’s “Interamerican Convention for sea turtle protection and conservation” guarantees protection and conservation protecting their reproduction and nesting and forbids consumption and trafficking. The “Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species” (CITES) is an international agreement to protect sea turtles from international trade by all countries that have signed the treaty (conserveturtles.org). These laws help to protect sea turtles from disturbances only in certain areas and the treaty only applies to the countries that have signed it. The next step to protect turtles is in regards to plastic. There are only few states that have banned plastic and in 2014, California was the first state to begin the tax on plastic bags. Organizations Over the years as the decline in sea turtles continues, more and more people are realizing the serious problem. There are now dozens of organizations and programs giving back and saving lives. However, there is still a lot that needs to be done in making sure this population does not continue to suffer. The most important part in saving sea turtles begins with awareness and spreading knowledge. Conservation Efforts Common Name: Sea Turtle Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Testudines Suborder: Cryptodira Family: Cheloniidae, Dermochelyidae Seven different species: Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii): This species was almost extinct in the 1960s but the protection laws allowed for a comeback. They are the smallest weighing between 75-100 pounds and are 2 feet long. Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): One of the smaller turtles weighing between 100-200 pounds and reach 2-3 feet in length. Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea): Weighs between 75-100 pounds and is 2 1/2 feet in length. They are the most abundant of sea turtle species. Flatback Sea Turtle (Natator depressus): Named after their flat shell which is unlike the others. Approximately 3 feet in length and weighs 200 pounds. Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta): Ranges from 200-400 pounds and is 4 feet in length. Named for the size of the head and strong jaw that allows them to eat hard-shelled prey. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): The second largest weighing 500 pounds and reach 4 feet. Can be found in the sub-tropics and are named after the color of their fat. Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all, ranges from 4-8 feet in length and weighs 500-2,000 pounds. Have been around for more than 150 million years, being the oldest of all sea turtle species (seeturtles.org). Species Earth’s history abounds with examples of climate changes, but researchers say today’s transforming climate, paired with coastal development endangers sea turtles in alarming ways. For millions of years, sea turtles have adapted to climate shifts however, the coastal construction and impacts to nesting habitats are threatening their ability to adapt (phys.org). Half of the world’s population lives on or within 100 miles of a coastline and the numbers are estimated to increase over the years (seeturtles.org). The development on our coasts are destroying the homes and lives of sea turtles. Upon sexual maturity, sea turtles return to the same beaches where they hatched however, due to the destruction and over-populated beaches, the reproduction can be unsuccessful. Objects left on beaches create obstacles for nesting females as well as hazards to the hatchlings as they get trapped. Boats and other watercraft are one of the main responsibilities of sea turtle injuries and deaths. Coastal populations are increasing tremendously with no sign of slowing down. Threats by Coastal Development Fibropapillomatosis is a disease that affects sea turtles forming large tumors on their eyes, mouths, or internally. This disease may cause them to suffer greatly leading to severe emaciation and eventually death. Turtles with Fibropapillomatosis have external tumors that hang and grow so large hindering swimming, feeding, vision, and potential escape from predators. It is caused by a herpesvirus and is mainly associated with heavily polluted coastal areas, areas of high human density, and/or bio-toxin producing algae. Fibropapillomatosis is most frequently observed in juveniles and it is associated with shallow/inshore waters. Threats by disease: Fibropapillomatosis Over 100 million marine animals die each year due to marine debris, according to the Sea Turtle Conservation. The “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” located in the North Pacific Gyre has debris reaching 20 feet down into the ocean. This patch contains 3.5 million tons of trash estimated to double in size in the next 5 years (seeturtles.org). Items include plastic bottles and bags, cans, balloons, and cigarette butts. Plastic is not biodegradable, it may break into tiny pieces but it will never disintegrate. This location continues to collect the debris destroying ecosystems and marine life. Figures 4. A clean up at the “Great Pacific Garage Patch,” which is approximately the size of Texas (seeturtles.org). https://www.wwf.org.au/news/blogs/what-do-sea-turtles-eat-unfortunately-plastic- bags#gs.awsnry Sea turtles mistake plastics as food. They ingest it which causes a blockage within their digestive system, eventually leading to death. Plastics and other debris can cause entanglement making it difficult for them to see, swim, eat, or escape potential predators. Plastic creates pockets of air in the gut, affecting their ability to dive. The ingestion of plastic is costing their lives and it is only getting worse. Threats by Ocean Plastic Figures. 3 Juvenile green turtle (Chelonia mydas) Fibropapillomatosis lesions on the left eye and left and right front flippers. (www.sciencedirect.com) Sea Turtle Impact Sea turtles contribute to the most important roles in ocean ecosystems and without them it will cause other species who depend on healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, to suffer. When green sea turtles graze, it increases the nutrient content of seagrass blades and increases productivity. Nesting sea turtle eggshells provide important nutrients that also help beaches, nourishing vegetation. If they were to become extinct, it would negatively affect many parts of ocean ecosystems. (seeturtles.org) Figures 6. Known death causes in sea turtles. Plastic most known cause of death (nature.com). Figures. 2 Construction uncovering and destroying sea turtle eggs found in Trinidad. (dailymail.uk.) Figures 1. Hawksbill sea turtle. Recognizable by a colorful shell and is found in the tropical waters around the world. (www.seeturtles.org)
Transcript of Sea Turtles: Threats and Conservationfaculty.sdmiramar.edu/faculty/sdccd/alowe... ·...
Sea Turtles: Threats and ConservationKaylie Hatcher
Sea turtles have been around for nearly 110 million years, being one of the most ancient creatures on Earth. All over the world seven different species still exist. They play important roles in ocean ecosystems, providing nutrients to other species, coral reefs, and beaches. Due to diseases, coastal development, and marine pollution all seven sea turtle species are classified as threatened or endangered. Without strong efforts to help and protect, sea turtles will continue to suffer.
Abstract
Asma.mahdi. “Entangled Green Sea Turtle | OR&R's Marine Debris Program.” Dianna.parker, 10 July 2013, marinedebris.noaa.gov/entangled-green-sea-turtle.
Augliere, Bethany. “The Race to Save Sea Turtles from Deadly Herpes Tumors.” Oceana, oceana.org/blog/race-save-sea-turtles-deadly-herpes-tumors.
“Information About Sea Turtles, Their Habitats and Threats to Their Survival – Sea Turtle Conservancy.” Sea Turtle Conservancy, conserveturtles.org/information-about-sea-turtles-their-habitats-and-threats-to-their-survival/.
“Information About Sea Turtles: Threats to Sea Turtles – Sea Turtle Conservancy.” Sea Turtle Conservancy, conserveturtles.org/information-sea-turtles-threats-sea-turtles/.
“Longevity & Causes of Death.” Animals: Explore. Discover. Connect., seaworld.org/animals/all-about/sea-turtles/longevity/.
“Sea Turtle Threats.” SEE Turtles, SEE Turtles, www.seeturtles.org/sea-turtles-threats.
Works Cited
LawsNational Laws give sea turtles legal protection in the US and the ocean under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. State and local protection such as Florida’s Marine Turtle Protection act protect turtles and their eggs from being taken or sold, destruction, harassment, disturbance, and molestation. All activities regarding sea turtles must be authorized. Costa Rica’s “Protection, Conservation and Recovery Law on sea turtle populations” from 2002 prohibits any trafficking and consumption on sea turtles. Panama’s “Interamerican Convention for sea turtle protection and conservation” guarantees protection and conservation protecting their reproduction and nesting and forbids consumption and trafficking. The “Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species” (CITES) is an international agreement to protect sea turtles from international trade by all countries that have signed the treaty (conserveturtles.org). These laws help to protect sea turtles from disturbances only in certain areas and the treaty only applies to the countries that have signed it. The next step to protect turtles is in regards to plastic. There are only few states that have banned plastic and in 2014, California was the first state to begin the tax on plastic bags.
OrganizationsOver the years as the decline in sea turtles continues, more and more people are realizing the serious problem. There are now dozens of organizations and programs giving back and saving lives. However, there is still a lot that needs to be done in making sure this population does not continue to suffer. The most important part in saving sea turtles begins with awareness and spreading knowledge.
Conservation EffortsCommon Name: Sea TurtleKingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesSuborder: CryptodiraFamily: Cheloniidae, Dermochelyidae
Seven different species:Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii): This species was almost extinct in the 1960s but the protection laws allowed for a comeback. They are the smallest weighing between 75-100 pounds and are 2 feet long. Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): One of the smaller turtles weighing between 100-200 pounds and reach 2-3 feet in length. Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea): Weighs between 75-100 pounds and is 2 1/2 feet in length. They are the most abundant of sea turtle species.Flatback Sea Turtle (Natator depressus): Named after their flat shell which is unlike the others. Approximately 3 feet in length and weighs 200 pounds. Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta): Ranges from 200-400 pounds and is 4 feet in length. Named for the size of the head and strong jaw that allows them to eat hard-shelled prey.Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): The second largest weighing 500 pounds and reach 4 feet. Can be found in the sub-tropics and are named after the color of their fat.Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all, ranges from 4-8 feet in length and weighs 500-2,000 pounds. Have been around for more than 150 million years, being the oldest of all sea turtle species (seeturtles.org).
Species
Earth’s history abounds with examples of climate changes, but researchers say today’s transforming climate, paired with coastal development endangers sea turtles in alarming ways. For millions of years, sea turtles have adapted to climate shifts however, the coastal construction and impacts to nesting habitats are threatening their ability to adapt (phys.org). Half of the world’s population lives on or within 100 miles of a coastline and the numbers are estimated to increase over the years (seeturtles.org). The development on our coasts are destroying the homes and lives of sea turtles. Upon sexual maturity, sea turtles return to the same beaches where they hatched however, due to the destruction and over-populated beaches, the reproduction can be unsuccessful. Objects left on beaches create obstacles for nesting females as well as hazards to the hatchlings as they get trapped. Boats and other watercraft are one of the main responsibilities of sea turtle injuries and deaths. Coastal populations are increasing tremendously with no sign of slowing down.
Threats by Coastal Development
Fibropapillomatosis is a disease that affects sea turtles forming large tumors on their eyes, mouths, or internally. This disease may cause them to suffer greatly leading to severe emaciation and eventually death. Turtles with Fibropapillomatosis have external tumors that hang and grow so large hindering swimming, feeding, vision, and potential escape from predators. It is caused by a herpesvirus and is mainly associated with heavily polluted coastal areas, areas of high human density, and/or bio-toxin producing algae. Fibropapillomatosis is most frequently observed in juveniles and it is associated with shallow/inshore waters.
Threats by disease: Fibropapillomatosis
Over 100 million marine animals die each year due to marine debris, according to the Sea Turtle Conservation. The “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” located in the North Pacific Gyre has debris reaching 20 feet down into the ocean. This patch contains 3.5 million tons of trash estimated to double in size in the next 5 years (seeturtles.org). Items include plastic bottles and bags, cans, balloons, and cigarette butts. Plastic is not biodegradable, it may break into tiny pieces but it will never disintegrate. This location continues to collect the debris destroying ecosystems and marine life.
Figures 4. A clean up at the “Great Pacific Garage Patch,” which is approximately the size of Texas (seeturtles.org).
https://www.wwf.org.au/news/blogs/what-do-sea-turtles-eat-unfortunately-plastic-bags#gs.awsnry
Sea turtles mistake plastics as food. They ingest it which causes a blockage within their digestive system, eventually leading to death. Plastics and other debris can cause entanglement making it difficult for them to see, swim, eat, or escape potential predators. Plastic creates pockets of air in the gut, affecting their ability to dive. The ingestion of plastic is costing their lives and it is only getting worse.
Threats by Ocean Plastic
Figures. 3 Juvenile green turtle (Chelonia mydas) Fibropapillomatosis lesions on the left eye and left and right front flippers. (www.sciencedirect.com)
Sea Turtle ImpactSea turtles contribute to the most important roles in ocean ecosystems and without them it will cause other species who depend on healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, to suffer. When green sea turtles graze, it increases the nutrient content of seagrass blades and increases productivity. Nesting sea turtle eggshells provide important nutrients that also help beaches, nourishing vegetation. If they were to become extinct, it would negatively affect many parts of ocean ecosystems. (seeturtles.org)
Figures 6. Known death causes in sea turtles. Plastic most known cause of death (nature.com).
Figures. 2 Construction uncovering and destroying sea turtle eggs found in Trinidad. (dailymail.uk.)
Figures 1. Hawksbill sea turtle. Recognizable by a colorful shell and is found in the tropical waters around the world. (www.seeturtles.org)
