Chelonia mydas agassizi
A species of Green sea turtle Scientific name : Chelonia mydas agassizi Genus : Green sea turtle
Chelonia mydas agassizi, A species of Green sea turtle
Scientific name: Chelonia mydas agassizi
Genus: Green sea turtle
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Charles J. Sharp , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Chelonia mydas agassizi is renowned for its peculiar endothermic adaptations, enabling it to maintain core body temperatures higher than the surrounding water, a rare phenomenon among reptiles. This species also exhibits a fascinating migratory pattern spanning thousands of kilometers, a behavior crucial for genetic diversity and survival. It plays pivotal roles in marine ecosystems by consuming seagrass and contributing to nutrient cycling.
General Info
Lifespan
30-50 years
Diet
Chelonia mydas agassizi is mainly herbivorous, thriving on an oceanic cuisine of seagrasses and algae. Its specialized serrated jaw aids in consuming marine vegetation, but occasionally, it will also ingest small marine animals like jellyfish and sponges.
Appearance
Chelonia mydas agassizi is a large, streamlined turtle with flipper-like limbs and a hard bony shell. This shell is typically dark green to black, with brown and gold radiating streaks. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and can weigh up to 400 kg. The males, in general, are larger and have a longer tail than the females.
Behavior
Chelonia mydas agassizi is known for its predominantly solitary behavior. It forages for seagrasses and algae, utilizing its beak-like jaws for efficient feeding in marine environments. Adult females uniquely exhibit migratory patterns to visit traditional nesting areas for oviposition. These reptiles are non-territorial but display a remarkable homing ability to their feeding areas. Their behavioral adaptations facilitate survival in highly saline environments.
Photo By Charles J. Sharp , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Large marine turtles Genus
Green sea turtle Species
Chelonia mydas agassizi