Dispersal movements of green turtle (Chelonia mydas) reared for one month after emergence

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether turtles reared for a period after hatching have the willingness to migrate offshore. In order to do this, the swimming behavior of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) reared for 28 to 56 days was monitored after their release from the beach. Eggs of green turtles laid on the beaches were collected and buried into an artificial beach. After their emergence, the turtles were reared for 28 to 56 days in containers. Six active and healthy looking turtles were selected and we tracked them after release from the beach. After release, the experimental turtles moved to the north, but their movements were meandering. Moreover, one turtle temporarily drifted onto the beach due to ocean current. The mean speed of movement was 0.75 ± 0.11 km/h. The distance from the beach during the experiment period was 1467 ± 460 m. Their movement speeds were significantly slower than those of frenzy turtle reported in previous studies. In conclusion, the results of the study indicated that the turtles reared for longer periods may not be able to migrate offshore as effectively as if they were released naturally from the beach.