Lesson to Learn from an Endangered Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas): Marine Debris Ingestion, Rehabilitation and Satellite Tracking

Abstract

Background: Marine debris is an environmental pollution problem affecting the oceans worldwide. Recent studies reveal that marine debris ingestion by sea turtles is rising. Sea turtles brought in for rehabilitation allows an opportunity to provide insights into the possible effects of anthropogenic debris on animal’s survivorship during rehabilitation. Methods: A green turtle (Chelonia mydas) was bycaught in fishing gear in south-western Taiwan in 2016. Debris were collected in the holding tank during rehabilitation. After a 3-month rehabilitation, the turtle was fit for release. Prior to the release, the turtle was tagged with a satellite transmitter. Result: Marine debris were found in turtle feces or floating on the surface of basins during rehabilitation. The debris were dominated by fishing line, hard plastic, soft plastic, rope, wood and styrofoam. The turtle survived and was successfully released back into the wild attached with a satellite transmitter. The turtle remained residing in waters of southern Taiwan, possibly its foraging ground, for almost two months. This study presents an apparent successful rehabilitation of an endangered green sea turtle, that hopefully helps further enhance environmental education and public awareness, as well as concerted actions against marine pollution in general and anthropogenic debris related problems in particular.