Explore the Fascinating World of the Green Sea Turtle in Its Natural Habitats
The Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) is one of the most well-known and fascinating species of sea turtles worldwide. Once abundant, there are now estimated to be around 200,000 individuals remaining in the oceans. Annually, between 200 and 350 female turtles return to the nesting beaches of the French Frigate Shoals in the northwest Hawaiian island group. This remote atoll provides ideal conditions for seabirds and the Green Sea Turtle itself. While albatrosses raise their young, other species such as Tiger Sharks also visit the Shoals. In the lagoons and on the beaches of the Midway Atoll, the strictly protected Green Sea Turtles can be seen, which, due to their sensitivity to human influence, do not nest here but come solely for feeding purposes. With a shell length of 80 to 120 cm and a weight of up to 250 kg, these turtles are excellent divers and can stay underwater for extended periods. Their diet includes seagrass, algae, sponges, soft corals, jellyfish, crustaceans, squid, and fish. Adult turtles are predominantly vegetarian. Historically, Green Sea Turtles were also known as 'soup turtles' and were considered a delicacy in some cultures. Today, they are critically endangered due to nesting beach destruction, habitat pollution, and intensive use as a food source. Conservation efforts are therefore essential to ensure the survival of these remarkable creatures.
