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Seven distinct species of sea turtles are known to exist. These seven species each have a distinct name and are members of six genera.
The genus and species of sea turtles are reflected in their scientific names. The turtles’ common name describes some of its typical characteristics.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES
The many types of sea turtles live in particular places, however they are more adapted to living in water. One of the distinctive characteristics between each of them is this. They all share a similar jaw and mouth form. Certain types of food are simple to smash due to the jaw’s shape. The types of food differ depending on the species.
Swimming and sleeping habits are two other differentiating characteristics. The timing and manner of their mating vary depending on the species. These observations indicate that there are several species of sea turtles, including:
HAWKSBILL (Eretmochelys imbricata)
One of the marine animal species included on the Endangered Species Act list in 1970 is the hawksbill. Its progressive departure from nature is the cause of this. It is challenging to determine the turtle’s global population because it is a lone nester. Yet, they are still present in various regions of the world. Yemen, Oman, the Red Sea, northeastern Australia, and various regions of the US are a few of these.
Hawksbills are highly sought-after in the shell market because of their exquisite shells with distinctive patterns. They also have overlapping scales on a thin, pointed beak. The shape of their jaw makes it ideal for feeding on sponges, jellyfish, and anemones. A typical hawksbill can grow to be up to 32 inches long and weigh 90 to 150 pounds.
LOGGERHEAD (Caretta caretta)
Its jaw is well supported by powerful muscles, allowing it simple to crush on clams and sea urchins. A typical loggerhead can grow to be 48 inches long and weigh 300 pounds.
LEATHERBACK (Dermochelys coriacea)
The distinctive shells of leatherback sea turtles make them stand out. They are the biggest species of sea turtle and have a shell that resembles a leatherback. Although they nest more frequently across the Atlantic and Pacific Seas, they are usually always present.
Their reliance on fisheries and eggs makes them vulnerable as well. Jellyfish are the major food for leatherbacks. They are typically between 600 and 1500 pounds in weight and 63 inches long.
GREEN TURTLE (Chelonia mydas)
The name “green turtle” refers to the color of the fat and cartilage of green turtles. A sizable number of herbivorous species that are more prevalent in tropical and subtropical seas are also included in this group.
In search of food, green turtles also move from one area to another. They become vulnerable during migration as a result of egg collection. Furthermore, fishing equipment catches them.
OLIVE RIDLEY (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) and the Flatbacks are the final two species (Natator depressa). Both are less typical than the first five listed above. The waxy skin of the Flatbacks is easily damaged. They are equally fragile and primarily eat shrimp.
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FAQ
What is special about turtles?
Sea turtles are reptiles and breathe air, but they can spend long periods of time underwater in their natural habitat. Even their sleep is submerged. The majority of sea turtles live their whole lives at sea, only coming ashore to lay their eggs.
What are 20 interesting facts about sea turtles?
– Green turtles hunt for greens; hawksbill turtles are named for their jaws.The sex of sea turtle hatchlings is determined by nest temperatures. Leatherback turtles have evolved to devour soft materials. Olive Ridley turtles have large nesting parties.
What are 10 facts about turtles?
There are seven different types of marine turtles. Turtles are without teeth. These are quite ‘ard. – They can be enormous, it’s survival of the fittest, they make some interesting noises, their young lives are mysterious, sad but less salty, and they can be gigantic.
What are 5 facts about turtles?
– The temperature of the sand is crucial.- Hawksbill turtles help retrieve their preferred prey with the use of their beaks.- One species of sea turtle lays its eggs throughout the day.- Since the time of the dinosaurs, leatherback sea turtles have existed in their current form.
How long do turtles live for?
Turtles’ average lifespan. The species a turtle or tortoise belongs to has a significant impact on its typical lifespan. In captivity, some species may only live 10 to 20 years while others may live up to 150. If given the proper care, the majority of turtle and tortoise species can survive well into their 50s.