Greenberg dysplasia

Green turtle (Chelonia mydas), also known as the green sea turtle, is a large sea turtle of the family Cheloniidae. It is the only species in the genus Chelonia. The species' common name does not derive from any particular green external coloration of the turtle. Its name comes from the greenish color of the turtles' fat, which is only found in a layer between their inner organs and their shell.

Description

Green turtles are large, usually weighing up to 700 pounds (315 kg). Their carapace can measure up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) in length. The carapace of the turtle has various color patterns that change over time. Hatchlings of Chelonia mydas, like those of other marine turtles, have mostly black carapaces and light-colored plastrons.

Distribution and habitat

Green turtles are found throughout the world, inhabiting tropical and subtropical coastal waters. They migrate long distances between feeding grounds and the beaches from where they hatched. Compared to other sea turtles, green turtles have a relatively low dispersal rate.

Diet

The diet of green turtles changes with age. Juveniles are carnivorous, but as they mature they become omnivorous, with a preference for seagrass and algae.

Reproduction

Green turtles are known for their mass nesting called arribada. Females lay eggs on the same beaches where they were born. They lay an average of 115 eggs in each nest and make between two and eight nests per season.

Conservation

Green turtles are listed as endangered by the IUCN and CITES and are protected from exploitation in most countries. It is illegal to collect, harm, or kill them. In addition, many countries have laws and ordinances to protect nesting areas.

See also

• Sea turtle
• Endangered species
• Conservation biology

References

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