The Turtle Conservation Project aims to raise awareness about the need for protecting these animals from becoming endangered or even extinct
As environmental changes take place, it is our responsibility to protect the species that live here. All the organisms living on land or sea are equally important. They serve a great purpose for the ecosystem. They help in maintaining the balance of the food web. If one of the organisms is endangered, the whole ecosystem crumbles down.
The imbalance of the ecosystem can cause great issues in the long run. It can get everything. All species of animals are equally important in this matter. The balance of the marine ecosystem is slowly depleting too. This is because marine animals are more at risk than any other.
One such group of animals that are constantly threatened is sea turtles. Conservation of turtles has become extremely important now. They play a huge role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. Turtle Conservation has been on the agenda for most scientists, researchers, and conservationists. It is also given prime importance by most governments of the world.
But why should sea turtles be conserved? Why are they so important? Well, we will help you go through all these questions step-by-step here. Let's get started!
Why are sea turtles important?
Sea turtles are 'keystone species'. This means that sea turtles conservation becomes all the more important. Being a keystone species, they can disrupt the balance of the environment. They affect numerous species of flora and fauna with their presence. If they are removed, the natural balance can be disruptive.
The nesting of sea turtles is extremely important. The eggs that are not hatched have ample nutrients. They are commonly left on the coast. This can benefit the surrounding vegetation and help them grow. It is crucial for beach vegetation. Additionally, they are also an important source of food for many animals. The hatchlings serve as food for many birds, fishes, and mammals.
All the green turtles that feed on seagrass help to grow better. It is important for their growth. Apart from this, many communities have also attached their emotional and psychological beliefs to sea turtles.
These are enough reasons to launch sea turtle conservation programs across the world.
What is turtle conservation?
Sea turtles are beautiful and rare creatures that are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They have stunning shells that make them extremely threatened right now.
They are poached for their eggs, meat, shells, skin, and so on. Greedy poachers are always on the lookout of making a profit out of these innocent creatures. This is why turtle conservation is important.
Turtle Conservation refers to the protection, security, and rehabilitation of these turtles. A safe, secure, and growing environment is provided to them for growth and development. An environment where both the people and turtles can live in peace is created.
Why are there sea turtle conservation projects in India?
There are a variety of conservation projects aimed at protecting sea turtles in India. India has a large population of sea turtles nesting on its coast. In the last year, about 16,000 Olive Ridley Turtles were found dead. The numbers have been increasing steadily taking the total to over a lakh now.
This is the reason why various marine turtle conservation projects are being launched in India. Most turtles are caught in fishing nets and suffocate to death. Some are poached for commercial purposes. They are exploited as pets, medicine, or even food. This makes them an extremely vulnerable species.
What is the sea turtle conservation project in Maharashtra?
Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra (SNM) initiated the sea turtle conservation project in Maharashtra. Maharashtra has a fantastic population of Olive Ridley Turtles. The project started in 2002.
The project started in a tiny village closer to Ratnagiri. In the very year, they protected over 50 nests at once. The project has spread over 15 villages now. Within four years, they could successfully rescue 7,610 hatchlings.
The project is still very much active and continues to conserve Olive Ridley Turtles along with Green Turtles. It is one of the most efficient turtle conservation projects in India.
