Sea turtle swimming sun rays

A sea turtle swims under sun rays, a phenomenon combining natural beauty and essential behavior for thermoregulation.

About this subject

Sea turtles are reptiles inhabiting tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, including the Brazilian coast. Five of the seven existing species are found in Brazil: green turtle (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea). Swimming near the surface under sun rays is a crucial behavior to raise body temperature after deep dives in cold waters, optimizing metabolism and digestion.

Thermoregulation is not the only benefit of sun exposure. Ultraviolet light aids in vitamin D synthesis, essential for calcium absorption and maintenance of the shell and bones. While floating on the surface, these animals also rest and observe their surroundings. This habit, however, makes them vulnerable to boat strikes and plastic pollution, often mistaken for food.

Globally, all sea turtle species are classified as threatened or vulnerable by the IUCN. Bycatch in fishing nets, loss of nesting habitats due to coastal urbanization, and light pollution disorienting hatchlings are among the main threats. In Brazil, the Tamar Project, started in the 1980s, works on nest protection and environmental education, contributing to the recovery of local populations.

Fascinating facts include the ability of some sea turtles to migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding and nesting grounds, using the Earth's magnetic field as a compass. They can hold their breath for hours during sleep and live over 80 years. Each female returns to the same beach where she was born to lay eggs, a phenomenon called philopatry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do sea turtles swim near the surface under sun rays?

They swim at the surface to warm up after dives in cold waters, a process called thermoregulation, and to absorb vitamin D essential for shell health.

How many species of sea turtles are there and how many occur in Brazil?

There are seven species of sea turtles worldwide. Five occur in Brazil: green, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, and leatherback.

Are sea turtles endangered?

Yes, all seven species are listed as threatened or vulnerable by the IUCN due to bycatch, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change.