Sea Turtle: Biology, Conservation and Management Status in India

By : Sudhan C , Kingston, D.S. , Jawahar P. , Aanand S

Page No: 327-342

Abstract
Sea turtles are large, air-breathing marine reptiles that inhabit tropical and subtropical seas throughout the world. They belong to the Order Testudines, which form an integral part of the marine ecosystem. Worldwide, there are seven species, with 5 reported in the Indian coastal waters. Turtles are valued for its meat, oil and carapace in black market. The vital organs of turtle, liver and heart, bones and body scutes finds application in the preparation of medicines for Tuberculosis, Asthma and Bronchitis and for ornamental purpose. Due to its meat and medicinal values, sea turtles were hunted intensively by humans who resulted in worldwide declining trend of stocks over the last few decades. This leads to the declaration of all species of turtles as either vulnerable or endangered species, receiving international attention to focus towards conservation and impact assessment. Some of the major measures taken towards conservation of sea turtles were installations of TED (Turtle Excluder Device) in fishing gears, control of beach erosion and human predation, awareness and education on conservation and biosphere reserves. Conservation of sea turtles in Indian coast is essential for ecological balance and sustainable ecosystem development.

Authors :
Sudhan, C.
M.F.Sc Research Scholar, Department of Fisheries Biology and Resource Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.

Kingston, D.S.
Professor and Head, Fisheries Training and Research Center, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Kanyakumari; Tamil Nadu.

Jawahar, P.
Professor and Head, Department of Fisheries Biology and Resource Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University; Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
 
Aanand, S
Assistant professor, Department of Aquatic environment and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.