Turtles

why are green sea turtles endangered


Why Are Green Sea Turtles Endangered?

Green sea turtles, also known as Chelonia mydas, are an endangered species due to a variety of human-related and natural factors. These turtles are found on warm, tropical ocean coasts throughout the world, from the Central Pacific to the Atlantic. The exact reasons why green sea turtles are endangered vary from region to region, but all involve human intervention in some form or another.

Human Factors

The primary reason why green sea turtles are endangered is due to human-related factors. These factors can include:

  • Overhunting – Green sea turtles are hunted for their meat, eggs, and shells.
  • Pollution and habitat loss – Many nesting sites have been disturbed or destroyed due to human development, beachfront construction, and the introduction of non-native plant species.
  • Bycatch – Turtles are caught as bycatch when fishing for other species, unintentionally resulting in the accidental death of turtles.

Natural Factors

Some natural factors that contribute to the endangerment of green sea turtles include:

  • Climate change – Climate change can cause the water temperature to rise thus affecting turtles in the nesting and hatching process.
  • Natural factors – Predators such as sharks, jaguars, and cats can eat large numbers of turtle eggs and hatchlings.
  • Disease – Turtles can contract and suffer from a variety of diseases, some of which can be fatal.

Green sea turtles are an incredible species and they are vital to their respective aquatic ecosystems. Efforts need to be made to preserve and protect these animals and their habitats to help ensure their longevity.

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