Sea turtle underwater

Sea turtles are ancient reptiles inhabiting tropical and subtropical oceans, known for their epic migrations and ecological importance.

About this subject

Sea turtles belong to the order Testudines and have existed for over 100 million years, since the age of dinosaurs. Seven species are recognized today: green turtle, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, Kemp's ridley, leatherback, and flatback turtle. All except the flatback occur along the Brazilian coast, a critical feeding and nesting area.

These animals spend most of their lives at sea, but females return to the beaches where they were born to lay their eggs. This phenomenon, called philopatry, is one of nature's most fascinating behaviors. Sea turtles play vital ecological roles: herbivorous species like the green turtle control algae growth on coral reefs, while carnivorous species like the hawksbill help maintain the balance of sponge and invertebrate populations.

Unfortunately, all species are threatened with extinction due to human activities. Bycatch in fishing nets, plastic pollution (turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish), destruction of nesting beaches, and global warming (which affects the sex ratio of hatchlings) are the main threats. Conservation projects in Brazil, such as Projeto TAMAR, have been protecting nests and raising awareness among coastal communities since 1980.

Fun fact: the largest sea turtle, the leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), can reach 2 meters in length and weigh 900 kg. Unlike other sea turtles, its shell is covered by thick, oily skin rather than horny scales. It dives to over 1,000 meters deep to hunt jellyfish, withstanding extreme pressures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many species of sea turtles are there?

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

What is the biggest threat to sea turtles?

Bycatch in fishing nets is the greatest global threat, followed by plastic pollution, destruction of nesting habitats, and climate change.

Where do sea turtles nest in Brazil?

Major nesting beaches in Brazil are along the coasts of Espírito Santo, Bahia, Sergipe, Rio Grande do Norte, and Amazonas. Projeto TAMAR monitors and protects these sites.