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Using a remote sensing approach, we examined changing patterns in currents, waves, and tides and their impacts on coastal erosion and accretion at Jeen Womom Turtle Nesting Coastal Park (JWTNCP) in West Papua, Indonesia. This area is part of one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world and is used by four species of sea turtles. We quantified rates of coastline changes and oceanographic dynamics between 2012 and 2018 using remote sensing interpretation methods with data compiled from Landsat 8 and two oceanographic data providers: Indonesia Geospatial Information Agency and Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service. We found evidence that coastlines were both eroding and accreting with high variation among years. In general, we found that areas with evidence of accretion were those near river deltas where sedimentation from rivers counteracted erosion from waves. In all other areas, coastlines were dominated by erosion due to increased wave strength at high tides and related to sea-level rise. We suggest that turtle nesting conservation should prioritize efforts near river outlets where beaches are likely to persist for a longer duration than other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species of fire ants, Solenopsis geminata (Fabricius) and Solenopsis invicta (Buren), pose important threats to sea turtles, attacking hatchlings both within the nest and as they emerge and head towards the ocean. We surveyed ants at permanent markers along a major sea turtle nesting beach at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, Saint Croix, US Virgin Islands, where both S. geminata and S. invicta occur. Over the course of five surveys in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022, the percent of tuna baits with S. geminata or S. invicta present declined from 48% in 2006, to 30%, 16%, 2%, and 4% in the four subsequent surveys. The reasons for the decline in fire ants on this beach are uncertain, but it is likely a positive development for nesting sea turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most research on environmental conservation organizations addresses volunteers' motivations. A few studies analyze volunteers' production of ecological knowledge and their contributions to science. There is scant research into organization members' experiences as they perform their roles as conservation volunteers. This study examines the processes through which conservation volunteers derive meaning from their experiences using a case study of a volunteer sea turtle conservation group. Data from semi-structured interviews and field observations reveal conflict-ridden interactions between members of the conservation organization and three other groups: tourists, beach vendors, and the local tourist development council. Conservation volunteers perceive symbolic threat, in the form of value violations, from the other three groups. Symbolic threat influences volunteers' emotions and behavior. An increased understanding of volunteers' experiences of threat can suggest ways to make their experience more rewarding, thus increasing their likelihood of continued participation, and ensuring the sustainability of the conservation organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful conservation outcomes often depend on changing human behaviours that negatively impact biodiversity, such as unsustainable wildlife harvesting or illegal wildlife trade (IWT). However, inclusive psychology models that examine motivations of those behaviours have been underutilised in IWT contexts. This research examines the drivers of illegal harvesting and consumption of sea turtles on Maio, Cabo Verde (West Africa), by adapting data from interviews (n=20) and questionnaires (n=325) into the Comprehensive Action Determination Model, an environmental psychology theoretical framework. Initial findings suggest local behavioural motivations have changed over time, but key beliefs remained intact. Structural equation modelling showed intention to consume turtles is influenced by positive attitudes towards consumption, but interviews suggest normative personal and social beliefs are becoming relevant to consumptive behaviour mitigation. The same seems true of harvesting, reportedly performed mostly by young men looking to sell turtle by-products. Overall, results indicate the beliefs underlying harvest and consumption behaviours are distinct, such that outreach initiatives must be designed to address each. Results demonstrate how conceptual models developed in underutilised disciplines can be adapted to expand the transdisciplinary tools available to conservation practitioners. Embracing behaviour-focused approaches is crucial to address the intricate cultural and contextual factors of IWT. Abstract in Portuguese: https://bit.ly/3Aj9xuu

Sea turtles, vital to marine ecosystems, face population decline. Artificial breeding is a recovery strategy, yet it risks introducing antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to wild populations and ecosystems. This study employed metagenomic techniques to compare the distribution characteristics of ARGs in the guts of wild and artificially bred green turtles (Chelonia mydas). The findings revealed that the total abundance of ARGs in C. mydas that have been artificially bred was significantly higher than that in wild individuals. Additionally, the abundance of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) co-occurring with ARGs in artificially bred C. mydas was significantly higher than in wild C. mydas. In the analysis of bacteria carrying ARGs, wild C. mydas exhibited greater bacterial diversity. Furthermore, in artificially bred C. mydas, we discovered 23 potential human pathogenic bacteria (HPB) that contain antibiotic resistance genes. In contrast, in wild C. mydas, only one type of HPB carrying an antibiotic resistance gene was found. The findings of this study not only enhance our understanding of the distribution and dissemination of ARGs within the gut microbial communities of C. mydas, but also provide vital information for assessing the potential impact of releasing artificially bred C. mydas on the spread of antibiotic resistance., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

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Sea turtles are essential to the health of marine ecosystems, yet nearly 90% are threatened with extinction. The unsustainable consumption of sea turtles contributes to their global decline. Because sea turtle meat is also high in heavy metals, the monitoring of sea turtle consumption is a priority for both marine conservation and public health. Despite this, sea turtle consumption was understudied along Madagascar's eastern coastline. We used structured interviews (collected over nine years) in northeastern Madagascar to study the rural consumption of sea turtles and other marine megafauna (including dolphins, whales, and dugongs). Sea turtle consumption is increasing in the southwest Indian Ocean. Over 80% of households ate a mean of 1.47 kg of sea turtle meat per year over the prior decade. The vast majority of sea turtle meat was purchased. Households which were more financially and nutritionally secure ate significantly more sea turtle meat. Sea turtle meat did not provide a significant source of nutrients to insecure households. Thus, its elimination from the diet would be unlikely to economically or nutritionally harm consumers. In fact, sea turtle meat contributed significantly to heavy metal burdens within communities and reducing consumption is a key step toward ensuring both adequate public and environmental health. Social marketing campaigns on the content and effects of heavy metals in sea turtle meat paired with increased heavy metal testing of children and pregnant women, may benefit both local communities and marine conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the marine turtle conservation program in Boca de Tomates, Jalisco, Mexico, all nests are relocated to fenced-off beach hatchery or polystyrene boxes due to illegal egg collection, predation, erosion, and high sand temperatures. For both methods we evaluated the following nest viability and hatchling quality parameters: hatching success, nest temperatures, incubation duration, and hatchling quality (locomotor performance, morphometrics, weight, and congenital malformations). Hatching success was significantly higher in the beach hatchery (mean 77.4%, n = 1,368) than in boxes (average 59.91%, n = 1,160) (P < 0.001). The beach hatchery nests hatched in less time (hatchery = 46 d, boxes = 51 d) (P < 0.001) due to the significantly higher mean temperature (hatchery = 32.62 °C, boxes 30.58 °C) (P < 0.001). The hatchery was exposed to less temperature variability per day (hatchery = 1.46 °C, boxes = 2.69 °C) (P < 0.001). To test hatchling quality, 10 hatchlings were randomly selected from each nest (n = 254). The weight, size, and locomotor performance (righting response and time to crawl 3 m) of these organisms were recorded. Live and dead neonates were carefully inspected for malformations (n = 2,000). No significant difference was found between incubation methods in any hatchling quality parameter (P > 0.050). The malformations at this site have low prevalence (hatchery = 1.35%, boxes = 1.89%) and low intensity index per organism (hatchery = 1.52, boxes = 1.89) compared to other studies and species. This is the first study, to our knowledge, that compares hatchling quality from 2 ex situ incubation methods in a single species (Lepidochelys olivacea), at the same location, and during the same period of time. Carrying out studies such as this one is important, since the quality of hatchlings can contribute to their ability to survive and reproduce in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Olive Ridley Project (ORP) was set up to protect sea turtles and their habitats. The project was formed in 2013, and it became a registered charity in the UK in 2016. From its inception, ORP took a multidisciplinary approach to achieve its goals. Part of its objectives, and the reason why the charity came to fruition, are related to the issue of olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) entanglement in abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (also known as ‘ghost gear’ or ‘ghost nets’), and the search for ghost gear and turtle entanglement ‘hot spots’ throughout the Indian Ocean. The initial ORP research questions were soon challenged by societal interests to develop inclusive educational programmes in local communities and tourist resorts that could raise awareness about the need for conservation of all sea turtle species. In February 2017, ORP opened the first veterinarian-run, fully equipped Marine Turtle Rescue Centre in the Maldives, bringing together the work of researchers, citizen scientists, volunteers, environmentalists, marine biologists and veterinarians. The present work of ORP sits on a strong and scientifically robust collaborative plan. Current ORP research projects range from sea turtle population analyses, spatial ecology, rehabilitation of injured and sick individuals, epibiont parasite analyses, precise turtle identification through photo-ID research, linking ghost gear to responsible fisheries, and analyses of ghost gear drift patterns. The programme enhances community education and outreach by engaging schoolchildren, organizing workshops, promoting sustainable use of ghost gear waste, and training citizen scientists and local fishing communities. The ORP programme encompasses many principles of research engagement, effectively combining scientific knowledge, education and action. This article explores all stages of the process (from research planning and design, to knowledge exchange and inter- and trans-disciplinary impact assessments), describing the active engagement originated by the ORP initiative. A reflective insight into the learning, enrichment and challenges of engaging researchers and community actors is also included, considering the current social and scientific framework.

The Olive Ridley Project (ORP) was set up to protect sea turtles and their habitats. The project was formed in 2013, and it became a registered charity in the UK in 2016. From its inception, ORP took a multidisciplinary approach to achieve its goals. Part of its objectives, and the reason why the charity came to fruition, are related to the issue of olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) entanglement in abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (also known as 'ghost gear' or 'ghost nets'), and the search for ghost gear and turtle entanglement 'hot spots' throughout the Indian Ocean. The initial ORP research questions were soon challenged by societal interests to develop inclusive educational programmes in local communities and tourist resorts that could raise awareness about the need for conservation of all sea turtle species. In February 2017, ORP opened the first veterinarian-run, fully equipped Marine Turtle Rescue Centre in the Maldives, bringing together the work of researchers, citizen scientists, volunteers, environmentalists, marine biologists and veterinarians. The present work of ORP sits on a strong and scientifically robust collaborative plan. Current ORP research projects range from sea turtle population analyses, spatial ecology, rehabilitation of injured and sick individuals, epibiont parasite analyses, precise turtle identification through photo-ID research, linking ghost gear to responsible fisheries, and analyses of ghost gear drift patterns. The programme enhances community education and outreach by engaging schoolchildren, organizing workshops, promoting sustainable use of ghost gear waste, and training citizen scientists and local fishing communities. The ORP programme encompasses many principles of research engagement, effectively combining scientific knowledge, education and action. This article explores all stages of the process (from research planning and design, to knowledge exchange and inter- and trans-disciplinary impact assessments), describing the active engagement originated by the ORP initiative. A reflective insight into the learning, enrichment and challenges of engaging researchers and community actors is also included, considering the current social and scientific framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) are the most abundant sea turtles in the world, quantitative information is scarce and unevenly distributed among regions. There are many management and conservation programs for this species, and assessments are necessary to identify nesting trends and effectively manage current conservation programs. PROTORMAR-UAS is a Research and Conservation program for the olive ridley turtle created by the Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Mexico. The program utilizes two biological stations: Santuario Playa Ceuta (SPC) and Playa Caimanero (PC). Objective: To evaluate the nesting trend of olive ridley turtles on two beaches in Northwestern Mexico and to predict prospective nesting trends for the next 30 years. Methods: Using annual nesting data collected over 40 years at SPC (1976-2016) and 30 years at PC (1986-2016), we evaluated nesting trends, hatching success, predation and poaching of olive ridley turtles on the two beaches in Northwestern Mexico. Then, prospective nesting estimates for the next 30 years were calculated predictive time series model. Results: A positive and significant correlation was identified between the number of annual nests and time for both beaches (rho = 0.850, P = 0.01 for SPC; rho = 0.677, P = 0.01 for PC); the average hatching success rates were 65.09 at SPC and 60.72 % at PC. The predictive time-series model indicated that the numbers of nests will continue to increase through 2045, increasing three-fold at SPC and six-fold at PC with respect to the last year of monitoring. Conclusions: There was a clear positive trend in the number of olive ridley sea turtle nests at both sites, which is consistent with trends found in other recent studies from the region. Therefore, we suggest that PC be designated a legally protected nesting area since it is located within the latitudinal limits of olive ridley nesting and given the need for resources for camp operation considering increased nesting and current problems with predation and poaching. Because in Mexico operating a nesting beach without any protection status implies not having a budget for its management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea turtle populations have declined globally and are of conservation concern. We investigated the effects of nest management methods on hatching success and egg/hatchling predation rates of hawksbill turtles Eretmochelys imbricata on Cousine Island, Seychelles. We determined the effectiveness of two different crab-barrier methods (netted and fenced) on hatching success and predation rates. We examined the relative influence of nest-site cover (full sun, partial sun or full shade) and location (zones of high risk or low risk of predation) on hatching success and predation rates. We also examined temperature disparity between netted and control nests to estimate potential effects on sex ratios and measured typical beach-substrate temperatures in the different nesting habitats. We compared data from 40 netted, 40 fenced and 40 control nests during the 2014/2015 breeding season. Overall, hawksbill turtle hatching success was not significantly affected by treatment or cover; however, netted nests and nests incubating in full sun had the highest mean hatching success. Predation rate was generally low but variable, and the rates differed significantly between the three treatments. Nest temperatures differed significantly between the netted and control nests, with netting used to protect nests having a substantial cooling effect. Hatchling sex ratios for natural nests were skewed towards females and those for netted nests skewed towards males. With climate change and increasing ambient temperatures imminent, a better understanding of how the spatial distribution of nests and variations in environmental factors influence hawksbill turtle hatching success and the levels of predation on eggs and hatchlings will assist future conservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chelonia mydas (green sea turtles, GST) in Lanyu (Orchid Island), Taiwan, affect the behavioral evolution of land-based organisms in Lanyu, and they are also important for the study of evolutionary biology. However, threats to their survival are increasing. To protect GST, conservation organizations have recruited volunteer tourists to assist in the implementation of a GST conservation program. However, the volunteer tourism program for GST conservation did not achieve the expected results, and it even caused serious social conflicts and threatened the survival of GST. In this study, the volunteers and the local Tao people were interviewed to understand the views of both parties, and the interview data were analyzed using Ostrom's common resources management principles. The results showed that wo mechanisms led to the neglect: the appropriate authorities in the Taiwan government did not provide sufficient funds, and the government was unable to integrate and coordinate the conservation activities. The research results suggest that government authorities should provide sufficient funds and communication resources to assist conservation organizations in making use of local ecological conservation mechanisms and that conservation organizations should report the results of volunteer tourism programs to the Tao people and assist in cleaning the beach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drake Bay, Costa Rica is similar to hundreds of beaches where the marine turtle trade is an important source of income. By 2004, the depredation and loss of nests reached 85% of total nesting, and the Olive Ridley population was endangered. The Corcovado Foundation arrived to Drake Bay in response to the environmental concerns of several community members in 2005.This Costa Rican organization has implemented a model of community-based conservation through the local association, ACOTPRO. The first overarching goal of this study is to analyze economic aspects of marine turtle uses and the socioeconomic impact of this particular conservation program on surrounding communities. The second goal of this study was to measure sea turtle hatchery efficiency by comparing incubation conditions of nests relocated to the hatchery, against natural conditions of in-situ nests on the beach. We studied thermal profiles of Lepidochelys olivacea nests in Drake Bay, during the nesting season of 2010. The parameters monitored were; Olive Ridley’s incubation temperatures, clutch sizes and hatching successes. We concluded that the hatchery has similar thermal conditions as the beach. In addition, we estimated that Drake Bay may exhibit a male bias in the total hatchling production during the Olive Ridley nesting season in 2010. The results indicate that the location of oviposition doesn’t have effect on the research parameters. However, the incubation temperatures within study nests were affected by timing of oviposition, decreasing from nests laid in August to October. As a consequence, the expected proportion of males increased over time. By monitoring nest conditions, both on the beach and in the hatchery, projects will be better suited to incorporate temperature data into management decisions

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that is closely linked to the principle of conservation. Thus, ecotourism is right and beneficial in maintaining the integrity and authenticity of ecosystems in natural areas, particularly turtle conservation areas. Ecotourism is synergized to turtle conservation as it has such features: (1) Conservation, the use of biodiversity does not damage the natural source, also it does not cause negative impact whereas it is very environmentally friendly, (2) Education, by improving community’s awareness and changing their behavior about the need for conservation of living natural resources and their conservation, (3) Economy, ecotourism provides economic benefits and spur regional development; and (4) Active role of community, this is done by building partnership with local communities for the development of ecotourism. Based on the issues, “IbW Conservation and Ecotourism Ngadirojo District Pacitan Region” was done by (1) Making a model of tourism activities that is environmentally, ecologically, socially, and economically beneficial to local communities and to the sustainability of natural resources, (2) Assessing the object of tourist attraction in flora and fauna conservation areas, in this case sea turtles and their ecosystems, so that can synergize with ecotourism activities, and (3) Making a model of local community-based tourist institution. The method implemented to achieve the objectives was “Community Empowerment through Ecotourism” which is described as follow: (1) Land Conservation, value and travel product, (2) Creation of an ecotourism atmosphere that all people who live in the area will gain the benefit, (3) The development of tourism activities that carry the excellence of the physical, economic, socio-cultural aspects of the local, (4) The solid image of ecotourism activities in the region that is supported by the readiness of all stakeholders, and (5) Integration of turtle theme conservation and ecotourism area with other supporting tourism products in the Regency. Pacitan Construction of facilities that have been carried out are: (1) developing the forest of eternity, (2) ecological restoration of coastal forests, (3) making sea water wells for turtle ponds, (4) nursery of coastal forest vegetation, (5) construction of marine biota ponds and sanitation facilities, (6) construction of shelters and gazebos, (7) construction of parking lot, and (8) widening of the ecotourism ring road. The next stage plans are: (1) ecotourism community empowerment, (2) strengthening the ecotourism area, and (3) revitalization of marine biota ponds.

Legal trade in sea turtles and their eggs remains a reality in many countries where conservation of this marine endangered species does exist. This duality is a conflict to some who appeal for a total trade ban, which may have implications on local livelihoods. Using the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA), this paper considers the dilemma by empirically examining the context of the state’s legislation, particularly the Terengganu Turtle Enactment (TTE) and its “haves” – what is legally provided on paper, the available capitals in hand, and the actual implementation carried out in practice – to elucidate whether a trade ban is indeed the immediate solution for improving sea turtle conservation in the state of Terengganu, Malaysia, which is an important rookery in Southeast Asia. Findings based on data collected through extensive archival research and in-depth interviews with officers of the state who manage sea turtles as well as those whose past and current livelihoods depend on the trade indicate that (1) sea turtles are a transformative natural capital that the Terengganu legislation supports on paper via a pro-conservation concession system; (2) in putting paper into practice, those involved in its implementation have strategically mobilized available resources to achieve a balanced outcome between conservation and livelihood; and (3) institutional absenteeism, financial handicap, and ambiguous legal protection status of nesting beaches are issues that need addressing to fulfill the true potential of this legislation. However, a better conservation outcome is administratively possible via a full conservation–concession system that lists all beaches under the TTE to ensure the sustainability of sea turtles and local livelihoods, in preparation for the ultimate long-term goal: total conservation via a trade ban without which conservation of the species remains precarious not only at state but also at national and regional levels.

Bycatch—the incidental capture of non-targeted species in fishing gear—threatens many different marine species. Fisheries bycatch threatens the continued survival of several sea turtle species, which have experienced population declines over the past several decades. New devices and gear modifications such as acoustic pingers, turtle excluder devices, and circle hooks have reduced the bycatch of marine mammals and sea turtles. Because sea turtles use visual cues to aid in foraging habits, methods that use visual deterrents to reduce incidental sea turtle capture in gillnets are an emerging research area. Past experiments have found that attaching light sources to gillnets reduces sea turtle bycatch without affecting target catch rates or catch market value; however, these methods were too costly and time-intensive to the fishers to be practical. This project will test the effectiveness of using illuminated nets to reduce sea turtle bycatch. Portions of the nets will be composed of a phosphorescent material that absorbs wavelengths of light and glows in the dark. The experiment will be carried out in summer 2010 in Punta Abreojos and Bahía de los Ángeles, Baja California, Mexico. Students from underserved communities in San Diego will assist in data collection and analysis as part of the Ocean Leaders Initiative with the non-profit Ocean Discovery Institute.

The goal of this project is to conduct a preliminary assessment of the effects of climate change on hawksbill sea turtles. It also explores ways that adaptive management can mitigate negative impacts on turtles in Anguilla and the Caribbean region. The main objectives include (1)  to complie a literature review of relebant information concerning sea level rise and hawksbill sea turtles in the Caribbean; (2) to examine the threat of climate change a national level, for the island of Anguilla; (3) Create a comprehensive map, using GIS to access the local changes in climate that hawksbill turtles are facing in Anguilla; (4) To create an online expedition diary to document and communicate the sea level rise and hawksbill sea turtle story.

Abstract The inundation of foreshore and backshore coastal environments caused by wave runup or groundwater intrusion can be extremely detrimental for beach-dwelling organisms. For beach-nesting species, whose eggs require sufficient gas exchange with the surrounding environment for proper embryonic development, inundation for prolonged periods can result in embryonic mortality. Management strategies such as the relocation of nests high on the beach to avoid wave action have been applied for some species, though this strategy may result in unnecessary nest manipulation. To improve the identification of beach locations potentially exposed to inundation caused by wave wash-over which may require management action, wave runup models were tested in Fort Morgan, Alabama, USA for the 2016 sea turtle nesting season. The potential exposure of sea turtle nesting sites to wave wash-over was determined by comparing observed nest elevations to the predicted combined elevation of wave runup, tide, and surge (i.e., total water level). Total water level was calculated using three different definitions of beach slope: foreshore, nest, and dune-to-water (DTW), and two LiDAR-derived elevation estimates: the most recent survey from 2016 and a time-averaged digital elevation model (DEM). Models using the time-averaged DEM performed as well as, or better than, those using the 2016 LiDAR survey in the majority of comparisons. Wash-over state was correctly identified for up to 83.3% of sites when using nest slope in the wave runup calculation. However, DTW slope performed the best when predicting the wash-over frequency of a site. Mapping of the predicted 98th percentile of wave runup indicated that only 11.2% of nesting sites were exposed to wave wash-over, in contrast to the 21.3% of nests which were relocated. Wave runup models have not previously been used to inform sea turtle conservation actions; however, it holds promise for improved targeted management interventions and can assist other species (e.g., shorebirds, beach mice), which rely on dry beach habitat for nesting, feeding, and migratory rest stops. Wave runup models can also be used to investigate past storm events, forecast approaching storm impacts, and supplement sea level rise scenarios for coastal species management at multiple spatial scales. Highlights • Modeling wave runup has the potential to improve coastal species management. • Models correctly identified up to 83.3% of washed-over sea turtle nesting sites. • Time-averaged DEMs inform exposure risk even without up-to-date beach surveys. • Optimal choice of beach slope varies with desired type of output specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Conflicts among and between local, national, regional and international stakeholders involved in marine turtle conservation are increasing. Often, they arise because of different socio-economic backgrounds of the people or groups involved. Here, we identified and assessed the conservation-based conflicts occurring in 24 of the 39 Caribbean countries, including their frequency, level of severity, number of stakeholders' groups involved, the degree to which they hinder conservation goals, and potential solutions. Using a cross-sectional social survey, we evaluated the presence and details of conservation conflicts provided by 72 respondents. The respondents included conservation-based project leaders, researchers, people involved in policy-based decision-making, conservation volunteers (community-based conservation groups), and species experts with experience working on marine turtle conservation programs in the Caribbean. The respondents identified 136 conflicts, and we grouped them into 16 different categories. The most commonly mentioned causes of conflicts were: 1) the 'lack of enforcement by local authorities to support conservation-based legislation or programs' (18%); 2) 'legal consumption of turtles by one sector of community clashing the conservation aspirations of other sectors of community (14%); and 3) 'variable enforcement of legislation to limit/prohibit use across range states of the species (10%). From our data it is also apparent that illicit activities in the region are also likely to impact the future success of conservation or monitoring based projects and programs. Overall, an exhaustive review was carried out, and the potential solutions were gathered. Due to the level of severity (physical violence) that some conflicts have reached, achieving solutions will be challenging without mediation, mutual cooperation around shared values, and adaptive management arrangements. Achieving this will require combinations of bottom up and top down collaborative governance approaches. Highlights • We identified up to 161 human-derived conflicts which are related to marine turtle conservation initiatives. • We found that each stakeholder group may have a unique perspective towards these conflicts, complicating enforcement. • Marine turtle consumption generates conflicts among stakeholders with different socio-cultural values. • We identified 27 cases that have escalated to a level of physical violence, according to details provided by our respondents. • We summarised potential solutions for these conflicts, along with possible solution implementations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time it takes a hatchling sea turtle to cross a beach and reach the sea after emergence considerably affects its ability to avoid predators and survive this first journey. Impediments, such as tyre ruts across a hatchling's route, may increase the travel time and, consequently, reduce the probability of survival. To assess the effects of multiple tyre ruts on the seaward orientation of hatchling loggerhead sea turtles, we performed a census of tracks on several beaches on Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde. Through this census, we were able to calculate the average number of tyre ruts a hatchling is likely to encounter on its way to the sea; we also determined the depth and width of those ruts and the distance between tracks. Based on these results, we designed and carried out a field test to analyse five different experimental treatments along a 15-m test path length. The experimental treatments included minor, moderate, and severe tyre rut scenarios, as well as a management scenario and a control. The length of time it took hatchlings (n = 162) to traverse each treatment was recorded. We found that each treatment significantly affected the time it took the hatchlings to reach the sea, and our generalized linear models (GLMs) indicated that it took the turtles longer to cross the areas with a greater number of tracks and with deeper tracks. Our results show that vehicle use on beaches has an effect on loggerhead hatchling dispersal. These findings highlight the importance of beach management and the promotion of a sustainable development plan to increase hatchling recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many projects have been developed in the last years for the conservation of sea turtles. Young green turtles (Chelonia mydas) often nest on the Brazilian coast. Because they nest in beaches along the coastline and islands, green turtles are susceptible to fishing and accidental ingestion of anthropogenic debris. Early detection of ingested debris is crucial for the survival of rescued sea animals. Ultrasound (US) has emerged as a viable imaging technique for visceral examination in veterinary medicine. Previous studies have suggested the left and right cervicobrachial, axillary, preand post-femoral areas as the only viable approaches for US examination, but the acoustic windows available for imaging of coelomic structures are limited. It is important to notice that a detailed evaluation of all gastrointestinal tracts, especially the duodenum, is crucial for detecting foreign bodies and intestinal obstructive processes, as well as obtaining essential information such as intestinal motility and heart frequency. Intestinal motility and heartbeats are not detected through radiographic examination or through the acoustic windows available so far. This study aimed to establish the viability of US examination of coelomic viscera through the plastron in stranded green turtles. Eleven young green turtles rescued by the GREMAR Institute were examined. Turtles were placed in the dorsal decubitus position during US examination, which did not require anesthesia. Even though the plastron is constituted of bones and cartilage, the present research has proven the viability of obtaining US images through it, making it possible to visualize structures undetectable through the acoustic windows previously suggested. The following organs were evaluated through the plastron: heart, stomach, duodenum, jejunum, colon, liver, gallbladder, kidneys, bladder, and spleen (in case of splenomegaly). US imaging through the plastron is a viable approach for detecting ingested artificial debris, which represents one of the leading causes of death among sea turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We tested for the first time the efficiency of the use of infra-red (IR) cameras for sea turtle hatchling monitoring. The cameras were installed on one green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and four loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) nests during 2014 and 2015 nesting season in the south-east Mediterranean, Turkey. The camera monitoring, even with the limited sample size, have successfully corroborated the previous observations and provided further insights on hatchling emergence behavior. The analysis of the camera recordings revealed that hatchlings emerged from the nests asynchronously in varying numbers of groups and different group sizes, while c. 60% hatchlings emerged during the first 5 days of emergence activity. 98.6% of hatchlings emerged at night with a peak activity between 21:00 and 00:00. The day of first emergence varied between 38 and 64 days since egg deposition, while the day of last emergence varied only between 60 and 65 days. Total emergence activity continued up to maximum of 22 days, which is longer than that of previous records. Overall, the present study showed that IR camera monitoring is a promising tool for sea turtle monitoring and can provide detailed insights on sea turtle hatchling behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the impact of ecological conservation volunteer tourism on aboriginal culture and ecological conservation. We present herein a case of green sea turtle conservation volunteer tourism at Orchid Island, Taiwan. We used field observations and in-depth interviews with semi-structured and open-ended questionnaires to collect data. Data and method triangulation approaches were adopted to ensure the reliability of the results. We presented that cultural changes resulting from volunteer tourism threaten the survival of endangered species. In addition, the failure of the market incentive mechanism and dysfunctional internal communication within the conservation organization, two issues that have not been reported in previous studies, can guide future studies on volunteer tourism and ecological conservation. We also provided practical recommendations for Orchid Island green sea turtle conservation, i.e., the combination of traditional and modern ecological methods, and the consideration of local norms and taboos during organizational planning. The planning and implementing of conservation activity that respects local customs fosters the support of the local people. Finally, implementing the locals' initial ecological conservation mechanisms can prevent the conservation activity from causing an undesirable threat to the conserved species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammalian depredation of nests has been listed amongst the most significant threats to hatchling success in sea turtles. In 2013, at least 13% of green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and 25% of hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) nests were lost to domestic dog predation on Playa Norte, Costa Rica. In 2014 and 2015, plastic and bamboo protective screens were deployed to protect nests. Screens were deployed at different stages of the incubation period and the success of the nests analyzed. Predation rates increased as the seasons progressed with October and November being the peak depredation months, as well as the peak for hatchling emergences. Eggs remaining in nests that had been partially depredated had a significantly lower percentage of hatching success than eggs in undisturbed nests. There was no significant difference between timing of deployment and likelihood of a screen being breached. The likelihood of a screen being breached was highly dependent on the type of material used; bamboo screens were ca. 153% more effective than plastic and successfully prevented the complete predation of ca. 48% of nests. Bamboo screening is an inexpensive, environmentally inert, yet labor-intensive method for reducing nest depredation by domestic dogs. This screening method does not impact the hatching or emerging success of the nest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental variables that affect incubating turtle eggs in the nest may also affect hatchling development, following hatchling emergence. However, these effects may be subtle and are largely unexamined. In this study, we analyzed the effect of sand moisture content during incubation on the postemergence growth rates of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) in southeastern Florida. We divided 10 clutches in halves, reburied them, and exposed them to 1 of 2 treatments. At emergence, 7 clutches met minimum criteria for inclusion in the study. One halfclutch received only ambient rainfall (“dry"treatment) while the other half-clutch received ambient rainfall plus daily watering (“wet"treatment). Data loggers were used to record incubation temperatures in both groups. Hatchlings were captured at emergence and laboratoryreared over a period of ~ 3 mo. Mass, straight carapace length (SCL), and straight carapace width (SCW) were measured weekly to track growth. Initial measurements were larger for turtles from the wet nests in all metrics. Turtles from wet nests grew more in SCW than turtles from dry nests. Turtle grow th from the 2 treatments did not differ in SCL or mass measurements. Larger initial sizes and faster SCW growth may enable the turtles to more quickly achieve a refuge size from their gape-limited predators. Moisture availability during nesting season is projected to decrease based on climate change models. If that change materializes, it could negatively affect hatchling sizes and neonate growth rates, survival, and hence the recovery of this imperiled species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea turtle nest relocation is a management strategy commonly used to mitigate hatchling mortality, particularly that due to wave wash-over and tidal groundwater inundation. Relocation can alter the incubation environment, so there is concern regarding potential modifications to embryonic development. Several studies have explored the effects of relocation on nest productivity; however, these studies often only compare reproductive output and incubation environments between relocated and in situ nests without accounting for the incubating environment of the original nest location. We assessed the differences in sand temperature, inundation exposure, grain size, and moisture content between the original and final locations of relocated nests at a loggerhead (Caretta caretta) nesting heach in Fort Morgan, Alabama, as well as differences in nest productivity between in situ and relocated nests. Differences in mean sand temperature, likelihood of inundation, and sand moisture between original-relocated locations and in situ-relocated nests were not significant. Emergence success was significantly lower in relocated vs. in situ nests, and sand grain distributions were significantly different between original and relocated nest locations. Given that relocation did not improve nest productivity nor reduce the likelihood of inundation, this practice conferred minimal net benefit to sea turtle nests on dissipative-to-intermediate beach conditions typical of the northern Gulf of Mexico. To improve the justification for nest relocation under these beach conditions, a better understanding of embryonic tolerance to inundation and clarification of relocation criteria and guidelines is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light pollution from beachfront hotels has the potential to impact nesting and hatching sea turtles. Education strategies could be used to alter visitor behavior and mitigate this threat. We tested the efficacy of a sea turtle-friendly education card that encouraged visitors to “protect the night, hide the light." Cards were placed in beachfront hotel rooms at a prominent sea turtle nesting site: Jekyll Island, Georgia. We assessed visitor responses by conducting nightly observations to determine the proportion of occupied guest rooms with beach-visible lights under 2 different scenarios (cards present or cards absent). We found that less than half of all hotel guests closed room blinds to minimize artificial fight on the nesting beach, and compliance rates seemed to be lower during peak visitation times. The nonpersonal educational treatment (card) had little effect on visitors' sea turtle-friendly lighting choices and behaviors, highlighting the need for other approaches to encourage responsible tourist behavior at ecologically sensitive beach destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Anthropogenic climate change is predicted to increase the variation in storm patterns in some areas in the coming decades. This variation in mean rainfall and increase in mean temperature could increase the extinction risk of species with temperature‐dependent sex determination. Taking into account that sea turtle reproductive output depends on climatic conditions, such as precipitation and temperature, extreme climatic events could affect the mortality of eggs and hatchlings. Our main goal was to assess the effects of extreme climatic events resulting in prolonged precipitation episodes on the reproductive output of leatherback turtles Dermochelys coriacea and how these events might reduce hatchling production. To study how short periods of protracted rainfall affect leatherback turtle reproductive output, we recorded (1) the hatching success of n = 48 nests located at 50, 75 and 90 cm depths under sun and shaded treatments from 2013 to 2015 at the Pacuare Reserve in Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, (2) the water table level and (3) sand moisture at 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 cm depths. In addition, we assessed changes in seasonal precipitation, nest abundance and the annual hatching success of leatherbacks over time. The results show that prolonged precipitation significantly influenced hatching success. Protracted rainfall increased the water table levels and sand moisture in some places, which consequently increased egg mortality in deeper nests. These effects may be higher considering the expected increase in storm frequency. Thus, the assessment of the effects of these extreme events on nesting grounds is necessary to predict the potential extinction risk of sea turtle populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been 40 years since Costa Rican ecologist Gerardo Budowski first proposed a potential symbiotic relationship between tourism and environmental conservation. Given the attention that marine turtles enjoy from both conservationists and tourists, as well as the pressures that endanger and threatened them, their predicament brings sharp-relief examples to Budowski's proposal of conflict, co-existence, or symbiosis between tourism and conservation. Although marine ecosystems are among the most productive on the planet, they are also some of the most threatened. While limited-take regimes have become the most common management strategy for marine protected areas, conservation success depends on the history of local resource use, the presence and nature resource management institutions, and an understanding of competing resource use. As in terrestrial contexts, this means providing sustained benefits for communities dependent on marine ecosystems. Carefully managed marine turtle tourism can be a means of providing such benefits. As a contribution to a special issue of JPRA focused on nature tourism in Latin America, this paper shares insights obtained during the stakeholder consultation process leading to the articulation of three marine protected area management plans in Costa Rica where marine turtle nesting and associated tourism activities occur. We seek to provide pragmatic answers to questions about the most effective way for park management to coordinate with local communities to ensure that tourism contributes to extending the extinction horizon for endangered sea turtle species within each protected area. The descriptive case studies presented here make clear the ongoing lack of systematic data about visitor numbers, activities, and impacts in Costa Rican MPAs and nearby communities. Yet the inclusion of stakeholder consultation in the parks' strategic planning processes demonstrates movement in the needed direction. Coupled with the new forms of social organization around sea turtle conservation and the associated tourism activities, two of the three cases presented here provide compelling evidence of marine turtle tourism extending the extinction horizon of endangered marine turtle species, confirming that Budowski's hope for symbiosis between tourism and conservation is alive and well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea turtle health is an important component of conservation since these taxa is susceptible to infectious diseases that can cause illness leading to mortality. Threats to the health, survival, and reproduction of sea turtles are increasingly documented; however, prevention and control has not yet been successfully achieved. Thus, information about health indicators of sea turtles is a useful tool in order to achieve the best possible conservation measures. The objective of this study was to establish a baseline of health indicators of free-ranging Eastern Pacific green turtles (Chelonia mydas) from neritic foraging and juvenile developmental habitats in Baja California Sur. Here, we contribute baseline and reference interval values of vital signs, complete blood count, and plasma blood chemistry for live specimens from coastal lagoons: Ojo de liebre and San Ignacio in Baja California Sur, Mexico. With the integration of these indicators, 79 turtles were diagnosed as “healthy.” Development of site-specific baseline of health indicators for free-ranging sea turtle populations allows to infer that the habitat provides adequate conditions for these species to carry out the activities corresponding to their stage of development and helps to create the management plans and pertinent conservation strategies as well as for the organisms in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the role of risk preferences in explaining the public's willingness to pay for marine turtle conservation in China. Respondents (n = 218) were randomly selected from eight districts in Beijing. They were interviewed in person and participated in a risk experiment. The results show that residents in Beijing had some knowledge about marine turtles. The typical respondent in Beijing is risk averse. We found that the risk preferences of individuals have significant effects on their willingness to pay for marine turtle conservation. Risk taking respondents are more likely to support the marine turtle conservation program. Results also indicate that increases in the bid value, household income levels, years of education and participation in public environmental issues have significant effects on the public's acceptance of marine turtle conservation. The findings of this study can help resource managers and/or policy makers to improve the conservation of marine turtles in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the connectivity among populations is a key research priority for species of conservation concern. Genetic tools are widely used for this purpose, but the results can be limited by the resolution of the genetic markers in relation to the species and geographic scale. Here, we investigated natal philopatry in green turtles ( Chelonia mydas ) from four rookeries within close geographic proximity (~200 km) on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. We genotyped hypervariable mtSTRs, a mtDNA control region sequence (CR) and 13 microsatellite loci to genetically characterise 479 green turtles using markers with different modes of inheritance. We demonstrated matrilineal stock structure for the first time among Mediterranean green turtle rookeries. This result contradicts previous regional assessments and supports a growing body of evidence that green turtles exhibit a more precise level of natal site fidelity than has commonly been recognised. The microsatellites detected weak male philopatry with significant stock structure among three of the six pairwise comparisons. The absence of Atlantic CR haplotypes and mtSTRs amongst these robust sample sizes reaffirms the reproductive isolation of Mediterranean green turtles and supports their status as a subpopulation. A power analysis effectively demonstrated that the mtDNA genetic markers previously employed to evaluate regional stock identity were confounded by an insufficient resolution considering the recent colonisation of this region. These findings improve the regional understanding of stock connectivity and illustrate the importance of using suitable genetic markers to define appropriate units for management and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine turtle populations have become seriously depleted throughout the world as a result of factors such as overharvesting and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts in Cuba have led to important achievements, with several species increasing in population. However, illegal capture continues, the black-market trade in marine turtle products is increasing, and new threats are being identified. Here, we: identify and assess threats and challenges to sea turtle conservation in Cuba; evaluate the management, monitoring, and protection capacity to address specific threats; and summarize achievements, drawbacks, and challenges over the last 6 yrs. Fourteen threats to nesting populations of marine turtles in Cuba were identified, with illegal fishing and poaching in nesting areas being the most critical. Management and enforcement in protected areas are uneven, and as a result, some nesting areas have benefited from marine turtle conservation, but others remain seriously threatened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study described the paradox created by the efforts of a conservation organization, which caused an emerging threat to the survival of an endangered species, as well as proposed recommendations to mitigate this paradox. In-depth interviews were conducted to investigate the problems encountered during the implementation of conservation practices by green sea turtle conservation workers (volunteers) in Lanyu, Taiwan. The staff believed that the implementation of the green sea turtle conservation measures violated the traditional cultural beliefs of the local residents (Tao/Yami ethnic group), which caused resentment by the residents towards the organization. Consequently, the residents did not cooperate with the organization and even discouraged conservation activities. In addition, green sea turtle ecotourism promoted by the conservation organization in recent years violated local customs of not having contact with green sea turtles or entering their habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infection in sea turtle nests has become a potential threat to sea turtle embryos. We screened the hatchery nest sand, eggshells of failed eggs, and stillbirths of green turtles and hawksbills collected from hatcheries in Malacca, Pahang, Perak and Terengganu for the presence of fungi. The DNA sequence of the ITS region of the three highest occurring isolated fungi confirmed that these species were Pseudallescheria ellipsoidea (35.4%), Scedosporium aurantiacum (27.2%), and Fusarium solani (22.0%). Morphological characteristics of these fungi were recorded. Although the total fungi abundance had no significant effect on hatching success (p > 0.05), the abundance of P. ellipsoidea significantly increased mortality in the nests (r = 0.70, p < 0.05). Future research should focus on understanding the biological aspects of this species to establish a more effective mitigation technique for the prevention of fungal infection of sea turtle eggs and hatchery employees. • Pseudallescheria ellipsoidea was the most frequently isolated fungal species. • Fungal abundance had no significant effect on hatching success. • Abundance of P. ellipsoidea significantly increase mortality of the nests. • Fungal abundance was significantly higher on failed eggs than in nest sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers news briefs as of 2017. Topics discussed include Australian government axing sea turtle protections to support coal mine, appeal of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Scotland to overturn plans to construct four large wind farms off the Scottish coast, and how ants perform many ecologically important functions in rainforests.

Sea turtles suffer from numerous threats such as predation, tidal inundation, and coastal building. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of hatchery technique on Göksu Delta beach, Turkey during the nesting season of 2010. For this purpose, eggs of loggerhead turtle ( Caretta caretta ) nests under the risk of tidal inundation were transferred into two protected hatchery sites that were constructed on Göksu Delta beach, in which there were no risk of predation and inundation, and the other nests were left to remain in situ . Hatching success of hatchery and natural nests were calculated. In addition, temperatures of both hatchery and natural nests (5 and 6 nests, respectively) were recorded, and sex ratios were determined using these nest temperatures and incubation periods. It was determined that hatching success increased with increasing distance from the sea (until 31 m) ( r 2 = 0.98), increasing incubation period (up to 60 days) ( r 2 = 0.68), and decreasing clutch size ( r 2 = 0.93), implying that the production of male hatchling is high in a nest if hatching success of that nest is high (or vice versa ). Mean hatching success, incubation period, and nest temperature for hatchery nests were found to be 72.8%, 51.1 days, and 30.2 °C, respectively, while the corresponding values for natural nests were found to be 40.5%, 49.9 days, and 31.1 °C, respectively. It was also detected that hatchery nests produced higher proportion of male hatchlings (25.2%) compared with natural nests (13.5%). Based on all these results, it can be concluded that hatchery management on this beach is not a completely effective conservation technique. Nest relocation and/or hatchery management enable the conservationists to increase hatching success rate, but they cause sex ratio alteration. In this respect, we can only partially support nest relocation and/or hatchery management. They should be considered as a last option due to sex ratio alteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper contributes to the literature regarding gendered patterns of participation in conservation by examining participation in sea turtle conservation and community life in coastal Northeast Brazil. We used a mixed methods approach, comprised of questionnaires and focus groups, and our findings indicate that conservation participation can be partially explained by gendered characteristics related to issues of structural access, cultural attitudes and values, and agency. Results show greater gender differences in access and agency than attitudes toward sea turtle conservation, demonstrating how patterns of participation are influenced by close knit and gendered social networks that decrease an individual's chance of being invited to participate. While gender issues are not universal, a framework examining issues of structure, culture, and agency allows differences related to age, class, race, etc. to be considered as well, presenting useful information in understanding the barriers and motivations involved in conservation participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) inhabiting the eastern Pacific Ocean are one of the world's most threatened marine turtle management units. Despite the fact that knowledge about the status of sea turtles at foraging grounds is a key element for developing the effective conservation strategies, comprehensive studies of hawksbills at foraging habitats in the eastern Pacific remain lacking. For many years anecdotal information indicated Coiba Island National Park in Panama as a potentially important hawksbill foraging ground, which led to the initiation of monitoring surveys in September 2014. Ongoing mark-recapture surveys to assess population status, generate demographic data and identify key foraging sites have been conducted every six months in the park since that time. To date, a total of six monitoring campaigns consisting of four days each have been conducted, leading to the capture and tagging of 186 hawksbills, 51 of which were recaptured at least once. The size range of captured individuals was 30.0 to 75.5 cm and largely comprised of juveniles. Somatic growth rates of individual hawksbills were highly variable, ranging from -0.78 to 7.1 cm year-1. To our knowledge, these are the first published growth rates for juvenile hawksbill turtles in the eastern Pacific Ocean. When these growth data are combined with information on hawksbill demography and distribution, our findings indicate Coiba Island National Park is one of the most important known foraging sites for hawksbill sea turtles in the eastern Pacific Ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first documented long-term sea turtle research and conservation project in the world was officially launched in Latin America (Tortuguero, Costa Rica) in 1955. Despite the enormous advances in research and conservation in the nearly seven decades since, many questions still remain unanswered about fundamental aspects of ecology and population dynamics that hinder the conservation of sea turtles in the region. To catalyze further dissemination of information and improvement of sea turtle conservation, this Special Issue presents 10 papers solely focused on studies conducted in Latin America. This Special Issue resulted from an initiative launched to celebrate the 36th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation, held in Peru in March 2016 -the first time this event was held in South America. The articles featured present novel results for four of the five species of sea turtles present in this region, with data collected as far back as 1971 and as recent as 2016. The studies cover diverse subjects including the nesting ecology for the most endangered populations of sea turtles in the world-the Eastern Pacific hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea); the origins and connectivity of nesting and foraging populations of hawksbills and green turtles (Chelonia mydas); the detection of a new foraging ground for hawksbills in the Eastern Pacific; and the pervasive occurrence of incidental capture as well as illegal retention of sea turtles. The recovery of these imperiled marine reptiles relies on information to design and implement sound conservation actions; in this regard, the papers in this Special Issue are making a vital contribution, following the initial efforts launched nearly 70 years ago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bahía Salado, located in northern Chile (27°41'S, 70°59'W), is the southernmost foraging ground for the endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas) in the Eastern Pacific Ocean (EPO). To date, almost no information exists on its current status, nor on its connectivity with nesting rookeries in the EPO. This study aims to inform on the genetic characterization, health and ecology of Bahía Salado's green turtle aggregation in order to provide baseline information for local conservation strategies. We describe population structure and residency times using mark-recapture method. We also examine health parameters (body condition index, blood profile and blood copper-Cu and lead-Pb concentrations) and regional connectivity through genetic analyses. Our results indicate that this aggregation is composed exclusively of juveniles, with residency times varying between five to sixteen months. Turtles exhibited a very good body condition; however they showed the highest blood concentrations of Cu and Pb described for C. mydas and for almost all sea turtle species. Some biochemistry parameters (albumin, calcium, phosphorus, AST, triglycerides and creatinine) are also the highest ever reported for this species in the region. Analysis of the 770 bp (base pairs) control region of the mitochondrial DNA revealed four haplotypes, suggesting a strong genetic connectivity to the Galapagos rookery. Our study indicates that Bahía Salado's aggregation represents a developmental foraging ground, where juvenile green turtles thrive. Although Bahía Salado's ecosystem seems to be a very suitable habitat for the species, the high levels of Cu and Pb, together with elevated AST, demand further research on the negative impacts of heavy metals on this aggregation. Our results highlight the importance to protect this bay from anthropological activities, evaluate pollution sources and other local threats to this particular coastal ecosystem. We recommend year-round monitoring of the green turtle aggregation and other components of this ecosystem, incorporating participation of local seaweed collectors and the fishing community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]