A pulse check for trends in sea turtle numbers across the globe

A pulse check for trends in sea turtle numbers across the globe

March 15, 2024 | Graeme C. Hays, Gail Schofield, Maria Papazekou, Anastasia Chatzimentor, Stelios Katsanevakis, Antonios D. Mazaris
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of global trends in sea turtle abundance, drawing on over 1200 years of monitoring data. The findings indicate widespread increases or stable numbers, with significant upward trends observed in 28 time series, no significant change in 28, and significant downward trends in 5 time series. Notable examples of population increases include green turtles at Aldabra (Seychelles) and loggerhead turtles in Sal (Cape Verde). However, conservation concerns remain, with some populations experiencing notable declines, such as loggerhead turtles in Oman and leatherback turtles in several regions. The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts to address emerging threats and ensure the long-term viability of sea turtle populations. Despite the positive trends, the authors emphasize the need for continued vigilance and adaptive conservation strategies to protect these vulnerable species.This study provides a comprehensive assessment of global trends in sea turtle abundance, drawing on over 1200 years of monitoring data. The findings indicate widespread increases or stable numbers, with significant upward trends observed in 28 time series, no significant change in 28, and significant downward trends in 5 time series. Notable examples of population increases include green turtles at Aldabra (Seychelles) and loggerhead turtles in Sal (Cape Verde). However, conservation concerns remain, with some populations experiencing notable declines, such as loggerhead turtles in Oman and leatherback turtles in several regions. The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts to address emerging threats and ensure the long-term viability of sea turtle populations. Despite the positive trends, the authors emphasize the need for continued vigilance and adaptive conservation strategies to protect these vulnerable species.
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