Chelonia mydas mydas
A species of Green sea turtle Scientific name : Chelonia mydas mydas Genus : Green sea turtle
Chelonia mydas mydas, A species of Green sea turtle
Scientific name: Chelonia mydas mydas
Genus: Green sea turtle
Content
Description General Info
Photo By rebecaleininger , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
As a seagrass specialist, chelonia mydas mydas plays a vital role in maintaining the health and productivity of seagrass beds. It not only consumes algae that can potentially overshadow seagrasses but also breaks down seagrass leaf litter, accelerating nutrient recycling. Additionally, this species displays an interesting migration behavior, journeying hundreds to thousands of kilometers between feeding grounds and nesting sites.
General Info
Lifespan
60-70 years
Diet
Chelonia mydas mydas predominantly consumes seagrasses and algae, with vast diet variations depending on geographical location. It's adept at grazing the sea floor, filtering nutrients efficiently from various marine plants, thus playing a pivotal role in maintaining healthy sea ecosystems.
Appearance
Chelonia mydas mydas is a large, aquatic turtle with a streamlined, oval shell. It has striking green skin with a mildly rugged texture. The shell is primarily dark brown to black, and may have lighter, irregular patterns. Chelonia mydas mydas has two pronounced flippers adapted for swimming instead of legs, and a small tail. There are no drastic differences in appearance based on age or gender.
Behavior
Chelonia mydas mydas demonstrates semi-social behavior, often seen feeding and swimming in large groups. The species employs distinctive migration for nesting, often covering thousands of kilometres. Chelonia mydas mydas is noteworthy for its advanced navigation skills. In their natural marine habitat, this species adapts an omnivorous diet for survival. Notably, chelonia mydas mydas does not display typical territorial behavior.
Photo By rebecaleininger , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Large marine turtles Genus
Green sea turtle Species
Chelonia mydas mydas