Myuchelys georgesi Suffers From Unknown Virus in Australia
The Bellinger River snapping turtle is facing a huge decline in NSW mid north coast, Australia. While we think that only a few thousand of these are remaining in the river system, more than 300 specimen were found dead so far because of a mystery virus. “The virus attacks the turtles’ internal organs, leaving them blind and starving, and most survive only a few days”. No turtles have survived this virus. PWS staff along with vets from Taronga Zoo are trying to identify the pathogen so as to find a cure. Little is known about the illness yet, therefore according to Deputy Incident Controller Geoff Ross the best thing to do for now is to conserve the species and try to reduce the impact on other animals. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) are managing the situation to try to save the species.
Turtle News From Around the World
Biology
Interesting story about Aldabra tortoise mating.
Conservation
7 Olive Ridley turtles came out on the beach to lay their eggs.
Spiny soft-shell (Apalone spinifera)) receives attention in the Thames River as it is found in only a handful of places there. More than 2,500 hatchling turtles from nests were released in 2014.
Young kids fascinated by turtles conservation are showing the way.
Research
Illinois State University professor receive grant to study the impacts of the chemical BPA, found in nearly every type of plastic, on Red-Eared Sliders.
Did You Know…
The Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) has been introduced into 76 countries and 20 US states where it is not native.
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Photo from ABC News/Tom Lowrey
