Bum-breathing turtle’s stress levels set to be monitored
The White-throated mud turtle, Elseya albagula, is a little-known species native to Queensland, Australia; however, it recently made the news after scientists discovered it had a unique ability to breathe through its bum, giving it the nickname of “the bum-breathing turtle”. A population of these turtle resides in the catchment areas of the proposed Urannah Dam. Researcher Wytamma Wirth from Jame’s Cook University has proposed a study on this species to determine their reaction to the rana virus which is prevalent in the waters of the proposed dam. Because of the age of the specimens, they have developed special immune system adaptations which may prove beneficial in the development of new drugs. Wirth plans to begin the project later this year after sufficients funds are generated.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Sea Turtle given a special name
Close call for a vulnerable species
An opportunity to sponser a sea turtle nest
Saving nests from bulldosers along the beach
Biology
Encouraging start to nesting season on the Atlantic Coast
Miscellany
Large Softshell needs to be reunited with its owner
Did You Know…
Male Lepidochelys olivacea off Orissa, India, concentrate in aggregations at sea during mating; these areas may hold 26 mating pairs per square kilometer.
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Photo from dailymercury.
