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The ocean is home to some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth, and sea turtles hold a special place among them. These ancient creatures have swum the world’s waters for millions of years, surviving mass extinctions and dramatic environmental changes. However, in recent decades, sea turtle survival has been tested like never before, highlighting the critical need for conservation efforts. Climate change, habitat destruction and human activities have created serious threats to their existence. A joint study by researchers from Deakin University and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sheds light on the progress in conservation and the ongoing struggles of sea turtle populations around the world.
Sea turtle conservation success
“Sea turtles are a beacon of marine conservation success, with many nesting populations showing remarkable recovery,” said Graham Hayes, Emeritus Professor at Deakin and Head of the Department of Marine Sciences. The researchers found that while the recovery is promising, it is far from complete. The study highlights the delicate balance between human intervention and natural resilience in ensuring the survival of these iconic creatures.
Conservation measures yield positive results
The recovery of sea turtle populations is closely linked to specific conservation strategies. For example, reducing artificial lighting on beaches has helped prevent the disorientation of hatchlings. In addition, the introduction of turtle-safe fishing methods has played a key role in halting the population decline. In some regions, hunting has decreased as awareness of conservation ethics has increased. Former poachers who once contributed to the decline now work as eco-guides, offering tourists the opportunity to see turtles nesting. This change reflects a shift in public attitudes towards these marine animals.
Stabilizing the sea turtle population
Historically, sea turtles were abundant in places like the Caribbean, where they were so numerous that they often collided with ships at night. Overhunting has drastically reduced their numbers, with an estimated 95% decline in the green sea turtle population in the region. The global decline has been driven by commercial hunting, entanglement in fishing nets, and habitat loss. Legislative protections and conservation initiatives have since helped stabilize and even increase populations.
Promising trends for different species
Scientists analyzed nesting records and other data to assess the state of sea turtle populations worldwide. The findings show mostly positive trends across species and regions. An analysis of 299 annual time series of abundances in 2017 showed that population increases were three times more likely than decreases. By 2024, this trend had intensified, with increases occurring six times more likely than decreases. Four out of five regional populations of green sea turtles are increasing, and nesting sites for loggerhead turtles have improved significantly. For example, on Sal Island in Cape Verde, the number of loggerhead nests increased from about 500 in 2008 to 35 in 000. While data on species such as hawksbill, olive ridley, Kemp's ridley, and flathead are limited, most available records show increases. These species remain protected under U.S. and international endangered species regulations.
Climate change and adaptation responses
Rising temperatures pose a significant threat to sea turtles, particularly through sex bias in favor of females. However, new research is providing hope. For example, in the Mediterranean Sea, turtles have been observed moving their nesting sites to cooler areas. This behavioral adaptation may help maintain a balanced sex ratio and reduce the impact of climate change.
“When harmful human activities are limited, species can recover and thrive,” said Dr. Jeffrey Seminoff, an expert at NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center.
Sea turtle conservation priorities
Looking ahead, experts outlined key priorities to ensure the continued recovery of sea turtles. These priorities include promoting resilience to climate change, reducing bycatch and illegal hunting, understanding the impacts of pollution, and ensuring sufficient foraging areas, such as seagrass beds.
"This success story demonstrates that humanity has the capacity to reverse biodiversity loss if we commit to conservation efforts," said Professor Hayes.
Sea turtle conservation serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and collaboration. As conservationists continue their work, there is hope that these ancient seafarers will continue to thrive, inspiring future generations to value and protect the natural world. The study is published in the journal Nature Reviews Biodiversity.
