Green sea turtle
Chelonia mydas
The turtles are distinguished by their small, blunt heads and a single pair of prefrontal scales located between their eyes. The green turtle’s body is covered by a large, teardrop-shaped carapace, typically in shades of dark brown, gray, or olive. Unlike some other turtle species, the green turtle’s carapace is smooth and lacks ridges. The shell features four scutes (scales) on each side. Their front flippers are used for swimming, while the rear flippers act as rudders, helping the turtle navigate the ocean efficiently.
Diet: Green sea turtles are primarily herbivorous, with adults inhabiting shallow lagoons and feeding on a variety of seagrass species. Their method of grazing—biting off the tips of seagrass blades—actually helps maintain the health of the seagrass beds.
Size: 78-112 cm carapace length
Weight: Adults can weigh between 78-112 cm carapace length
Distribution: Due to their migratory behavior and nesting patterns, green sea turtles can be found throughout the world, often in tropical and subtropical regions.
