The Guiana leatherback turtle, known by its scientific name Dermochelys coriacea, is the largest of the sea turtles. Despite its essential place in the marine ecosystem, this species is now critically endangered, partly because of the degradation of its natural habitats.
By Julien CLOZEAU / edited by Damien LAFON
The leatherback turtle, a giant of the oceans
With an average weight of 400 kilograms and a length of up to 1.60 meters, the leatherback turtle is impressive for its size. Its soft, skin-covered shell allows it to dive to depths of up to 1,200 meters, a unique ability among sea turtles. Mainly carnivorous, it consumes jellyfish, crustaceans and sometimes algae, thus playing a key role in maintaining the ecological balance.
French Guiana offers these marine giants an essential refuge. This is why, from April to September, the beaches of Guiana welcome females who come to lay their eggs. These places, among the most important for the reproduction of the species, guarantee the survival of future generations.
Multiple threats weigh on the Guiana leatherback turtle
The number of egg layings in French Guiana has fallen dramatically. In the 1990s, approximately 50,000 egg layings were recorded each year. In 2022, this figure collapsed to 828, which reveals the urgency of the situation.
Several factors explain this decline. Global warming directly disrupts nesting beaches. Rising waters and erosion reduce the space available for laying eggs. In addition, higher temperatures influence the sex ratio of hatchlings, generating more females than males.
Nowadays, plastic pollution poses another threat. Turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, their main source of food, which causes injuries or fatal obstructions. Abandoned fishing nets also represent a trap for these marine animals.
The poaching of leatherback turtle eggs, still practiced in some areas, deprives the species of its descendants. Indeed, stray dogs, introduced onto the beaches, also destroy many nests. Finally, erosion accelerated by human activities further compromises the capacity of these beaches to accommodate turtles.
Did you know?
The leatherback turtle can regulate its body temperature, allowing it to survive in colder waters than other sea turtles.
Local and global initiatives to protect leatherback turtles
To meet these challenges, conservation efforts are multiplying. In French Guiana, associations and volunteers monitor nesting beaches. Their main objective is to protect nests from predators and human activities. These actions also include raising awareness among local populations about the importance of preserving this species.
International collaborations aim to reduce the impacts of global threats. They include campaigns against plastic pollution and training for fishermen to limit accidental catches. Educational initiatives also strengthen understanding of ecological issues among future generations.
Why preserving the Guiana leatherback turtle is essential
Preserving the leatherback turtle goes beyond simply protecting a species. These turtles play a crucial role in the balance of marine ecosystems. Their disappearance could cause significant disruptions in ocean food chains.
By saving the Guiana leatherback turtle, we are also protecting a unique natural heritage. Guiana’s beaches, sanctuaries for these animals, are biodiversity areas of global importance. Thus, strengthening conservation efforts, reducing human impacts and combating climate change are necessary actions to ensure their survival.
Did you know?
The leatherback turtle has spike-like papillae in its throat, which help it capture and swallow jellyfish without injury.
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