Understanding sea turtle ecology in aquatic environments

Understanding sea turtle ecology in aquatic environments Chelonia mydas & Eretmochelys imbricata

Protecting one we protect many Main objectives 

Understand the population dynamics and ecology of sea turtles in the marine habitats of Galapagos. Determine habitat use and life-span.

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Record the trophic affinity, feeding areas and surroundings through biochemical analysis and diet studies

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Evaluate their individual health status, determine the negative impacts to local populations of sea turtles

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Supplement genetic characterization (Chelonia mydas)

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Provide meaningful information to address current and future conservation issues

allied organizations

Daniela Alarcón-Ruales MSc Research Scientist

Juan Pablo Muñoz-Pérez MSc Research Scientist

Conservation Strategy & Methodology  In-water Monitoring  Outreach and Education  Protected Area Management  Exploratory Habitat Investigations  Document movements (SPOT-5, wildlife computers)  Genetic analysis (LCM15382 and H950)

Turtels in the Galapagos are seriously endangered, primarily by direct and indirect anthropogenic influences that threaten their population viability.

Sea turtle research on San Cristobal Island began in 2009, with preliminary investigations into the feeding and resting areas, which led to important advances in the understanding of local turtle populations. In recent years the project has focused on habitat use studies, human resource use and the impacts of marine pollution.

San Cristobal and other nearby Islands were only recently identified as significant areas for foraging hawksbills. It is crucial to continue collecting information on interaction with human activities, which can be used for local and global management strategies and ensure timely protection measures.

Internet links: tortuganegra.org