Sea turtle swimming sun rays

A sea turtle swims in sun rays, a natural spectacle revealing the grace and vulnerability of these animals. Sunlight penetrates tropical waters, highlighting the shell silhouette and flippers as the turtle forages or moves among corals.

About this subject

Sea turtles are reptiles that have inhabited the oceans for over 100 million years, surviving mass extinctions and adapting to diverse marine environments. There are seven species worldwide, five of which occur in Brazil: the loggerhead (Caretta caretta), green turtle (Chelonia mydas), hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea). Each species has specific feeding habits: while the green turtle mainly feeds on algae and seagrasses, the hawksbill consumes sponges, helping maintain coral reef balance.

Sea turtle swimming behavior is influenced by water temperature, food availability, and reproductive cycles. They can migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding and nesting areas. Females return to the same beaches where they were born to lay eggs, a phenomenon known as philopatry. Sunlight plays a crucial role in guiding hatchlings: they head to the sea using the reflection of the moon and stars on the water. Unfortunately, coastal light pollution disorients hatchlings, increasing mortality.

Major threats to sea turtles include accidental capture in fisheries (bycatch), plastic ingestion, degradation of nesting habitats, and climate change, which affects beach temperatures and hatchling sex ratios. In Brazil, projects like Tamar (Tartarugas Marinhas) have protected nesting areas since 1980, monitoring beaches and conducting environmental education. Despite progress, all Brazilian species are under some degree of extinction threat. Responsible observation of sea turtles in their natural habitat, such as diving in Fernando de Noronha or Abrolhos, requires a minimum distance and respect for the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do sea turtles come to the surface to breathe?

Sea turtles are reptiles that breathe air. They must periodically surface to fill their lungs. While swimming, they can hold their breath for several hours, especially when resting or sleeping.

What do sea turtles eat?

Diet varies by species. The green turtle is herbivorous, feeding on algae and seagrasses. The hawksbill eats sponges and invertebrates. Loggerheads and olive ridleys are carnivorous, consuming crabs, mollusks, and jellyfish.

How can we help conserve sea turtles?

We can reduce single-use plastics, support conservation projects like Tamar, avoid artificial lighting on nesting beaches, refrain from disturbing nests, and participate in beach cleanups.