Sea turtle swimming sun rays

A sea turtle swims beneath sun rays piercing the ocean surface, a moment that reveals the connection between these animals and sunlight.

About this subject

Sea turtles are reptiles that have inhabited the oceans for over 100 million years, surviving mass extinctions and climate changes. There are seven species worldwide, such as the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the loggerhead (Caretta caretta), all threatened with extinction. Sunlight plays a crucial role in their lives: females use the brightness of the beach to orient their nests, and hatchlings follow the moon's reflection on the sea to find the ocean.

The image shows a turtle swimming in clear waters, with sun rays forming underwater beams. This phenomenon occurs when the sun is low and the water has low turbidity, allowing light to penetrate and create a visual spectacle. Turtles spend most of their lives submerged but must surface to breathe every 5 to 40 minutes, depending on activity. They also bask in the sun, a behavior that helps regulate body temperature and remove parasites.

Sea turtles are migratory, traveling thousands of kilometers between feeding and nesting grounds. The leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), for example, journeys from the South Pacific to the coast of Brazil. Light pollution on beaches disorients hatchlings, leading them away from the sea, and global warming affects the sex ratio of eggs, as temperature determines whether males or females will hatch. Protecting these animals is preserving a vital link to Earth's past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do sea turtles come to the surface?

They come to breathe air, as they are lunged reptiles. They also bask in the sun to regulate body temperature and remove parasites.

What is the importance of sunlight for sea turtles?

Sunlight guides females during nesting at night and directs hatchlings to the sea. Basking also contributes to their health.

How many species of sea turtles are there?

There are seven species: green, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, Kemp's ridley, flatback, and leatherback. All are threatened or endangered.