Researchers Work to Save Malaclemys terrapin
Russell Burke, a professor of ecology at Hofstra University has been studying and tracking Malaclemys terrapin in an effort to preserve the native species which is under severe threat and has been declining rapidly. Burke’s studies are directed towards determining the reason for this decline and he hopes that this will bring benefits for the Jamaica Bay ecosystem as well as the turtles. Jamaica Bay is a unique marshland which is also prime habitat for the Malaclemys terrapin; however, the waters have been receding drastically, and conservationists are working tirelessly to prevent this important ecosystem from disappearing.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Galapagos: Exciting news for magnificent tortoises
USA: Florida beach to impose lighting rules to protect sea turtle hatchlings
Ecology
India: Vessels becoming detrimental to native turtles
Miscellany
UK: Tortoise is the attraction at local pub
US: Centre Wildlife Care dedicated to conservation
Did You Know…
The species Indotestudo forstenii has a unique anatomical characteristic which is demonstrated in the nuchal scute. Some specimens possess this scute while others do not; however, locality has not been shown to be a factor in this interesting aspect of their anatomy.
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Photo from Chesapeake Bay Program.
