Turtles Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Temperature can have a profound effect on the phenotype of reptilian offspring, yet the bulk of current research considers the effects of constant incubation temperatures on offspring morphology, with few studies examining the natural... more

Temperature can have a profound effect on the phenotype of
reptilian offspring, yet the bulk of current research considers
the effects of constant incubation temperatures on offspring
morphology, with few studies examining the natural thermal
variance that occurs in the wild. Over two consecutive nesting
seasons, we placed temperature data loggers in 57 naturally
incubating clutches of loggerhead sea turtles Caretta caretta
and found that greater diel thermal variance during incubation
significantly reduced offspring mass, potentially reducing
survival of hatchlings during their journey from the nest to
offshore waters and beyond. With predicted scenarios of climate change, behavioral plasticity in nest site selection may
be key for the survival of ectothermic species, particularly
those with temperature-dependent sex determination.

Although fossils of Trionychidae are found as far back as the Early Cretaceous, their evolutionary history, including the origin of the crown clade, is poorly understood. Here, we use a microCT scan of the skull of ‘Trionyx’ kyrgyzensis... more

Although fossils of Trionychidae are found as far back as the Early Cretaceous, their evolutionary history, including the origin of the crown clade, is poorly understood. Here, we use a microCT scan of the skull of ‘Trionyx’ kyrgyzensis from the late Early Cretaceous (Albian) of Kyrgyzstan as the basis for a thorough redescription of the cranial morphology of this species. New information includes the pattern of cranial circulation, which is comparable to all extant trionychids. A unique combination of cranial and postcranial characters of ‘Trionyx’ kyrgyzensis allows us to establish for it a new genus Petrochelys gen. nov. The data regarding Petrochelys kyrgyzensis are incorporated into a phylogenetic analysis. When Petrochelys kyrgyzensis is analysed without including additional, extinct taxa, it is placed in a highly derived position within the extant Nilssonia. However, the addition of five Cretaceous–Palaeogene taxa breaks up hypothesized long branches and results in more basal positions for Petrochelys kyrgyzensis within recovered trees. All results support the hypothesis that Petrochelys kyrgyzensis is a crown trionychid and a member of Trionychinae. Our findings highlight the importance of including multiple extinct taxa in phylogenetic analyses prior to using any of those taxa as calibration points in divergence dating estimates. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:592B98BF-87DF-48A8-8AA2-543AAD21FC95

Evidence for the acquisition of nutritionally dense food resources by early Pleistocene hominins has implications for both hominin biology and behavior. Aquatic fauna may have comprised a source of highly nutritious resources to hominins... more

Evidence for the acquisition of nutritionally dense food resources by early Pleistocene hominins has implications for both hominin biology and behavior. Aquatic fauna may have comprised a source of highly nutritious resources to hominins in the Turkana Basin at w1.95 Ma. Here we employ multiple datasets to examine the issue of aquatic resource use in the early Pleistocene. This study focuses on four components of aquatic faunal assemblages (1) taxonomic diversity, (2) skeletal element proportion, (3) bone fragmentation and (4) bone surface modification. These components are used to identify associations between early Pleistocene aquatic remains and hominin behavior at the site of FwJj20 in the Koobi Fora Fm. (Kenya). We focus on two dominant aquatic species: catfish and turtles. Further we suggest that data on aquatic resource availability as well as ethnographic examples of aquatic resource use complement our observations on the archaeological remains from FwJj20. Aquatic food items provided hominins with a valuable nutritional alternative to an exclusively terrestrial resource base. We argue that specific advantages afforded by an aquatic alternative to terrestrial resources include (1) a probable reduction in required investment of energy relative to economic return in the form of nutritionally dense food items, (2) a decrease in the technological costs of resource acquisition, and (3) a reduced level of inter-specific competition associated with carcass access and an associated reduction of predation risk relative to terrestrial sources of food. The combined evidence from FwJj20 suggests that aquatic resources may have played a substantial role in early Pleistocene diets and these resources may have been overlooked in previous interpretations of hominin behavior.

Three mature, female, red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) were individually, and separately, diagnosed with different forms of oviductal disease. Case 1 presented with acute cloacal bleeding and was diagnosed with acute... more

Three mature, female, red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) were individually, and separately, diagnosed with different forms of oviductal disease. Case 1 presented with acute cloacal bleeding and was diagnosed with acute oviductal rupture and ectopic eggs in the coelom. Case 2 presented for repeated scratching in the direction of the cloaca and was diagnosed with chronic oviductal impaction and coelomitis. Both cases were treated successfully by endoscopy-assisted complete ovariosalpingectomy via a bilateral prefemoral approach. Case 3 presented with a reduced appetite and signs of nesting behaviour and was diagnosed with obstructive dystocia associated with bacterial salpingitis. Successful treatment consisted of transcloacal egg removal and systemic antibiotics.

L’Association du Refuge des Tortues (A.R.T.) est un centre d’accueil pour tortues aquatiques et terrestres implanté dans la commune de Bessières en Haute-Garonne (31). Spécialisé dans la prise en charge des tortues exogènes, le Refuge des... more

L’Association du Refuge des Tortues (A.R.T.) est un centre d’accueil pour tortues aquatiques et terrestres implanté dans la commune de Bessières en Haute-Garonne (31). Spécialisé dans la prise en charge des tortues exogènes, le Refuge des Tortues est de plus en plus confronté à l’accueil de tortues françaises dont l’Émyde lépreuse et la Cistude d’Europe. Fort de son expérience, de ses compétences reconnues et de son envie d’agir en faveur de la protection de la biodiversité, le Refuge des Tortues souhaite créer une station d’élevage concernant la tortue aquatique française la plus localisée, la plus rare et la plus menacée: l’Émyde lépreuse (Mauremys leprosa). Les travaux de la station d’élevage se dérouleront entre l’automne 2021 et le printemps 2022 avec comme objectif final une mise en service au printemps 2023. Les premières tortues juvéniles pourront être relâchées à l’horizon de 2026 ou 2027.

The genus Podocnemis comprises six living species, including P. erythrocephala (irapuca -red-headed river turtle). Data are available concerning the reproductive biology of the species of the genus Podocnemis, but little is known about... more

The genus Podocnemis comprises six living species, including P. erythrocephala (irapuca -red-headed river turtle). Data are available concerning the reproductive biology of the species of the genus Podocnemis, but little is known about their reproductive strategies. Considering the total lack of such data for P. erythrocephala, and with the goal of contributing information on their mode of reproduction, we examined the relationships among individuals of nests of this turtle, using microsatellite markers. Using four microsatellite loci, we analyzed the progeny in six nests from two localities in the Brazilian Amazon (Santa Isabel do rio Negro and Parintins). All juveniles from each nest were analyzed. The genotypes of each juvenile from each nest were identified, and because a sample of female DNA was not available, the maternal genotype was inferred from homozygous individuals in each nest. We found that this species is promiscuous; there was multiple paternity in five of the six nests analyzed. In addition to being important for the understanding of evolutionary and genetic processes, this type of information will be useful for chelonian management projects. Our data suggest one possible ©FUNPEC-RP www.funpecrp.com.br Genetics and Molecular Research 9 (1): 435-440 (2010) C. Fantin et al. difference between reproductive patterns of the different populations. This multi-paternal condition may be a natural reproductive strategy for the preservation of the genetic diversity of this species.

Policy management of turtle conservation in the region of Venu Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaimana, West Papua is indispensable. Therefore, this study aimed at examining the turtle conservation policy and it's implementation, both the... more

Policy management of turtle conservation in the region of Venu Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaimana, West Papua is indispensable. Therefore, this study aimed at examining the turtle conservation policy and it's implementation, both the consistency and coherence. The analytical method used is content analysis and simple mathematic statistics. The consistency of turtle conservation management policies is found inconsistent in implementation. Similarly, coherence between the policy on turtle conservation management with government policy is found incoherent, as it is more oriented to "economic growth" compared to turtle conservation management. This is due to weak management, among others: communication, resources, attitudes and behavior, and bureaucratic structures. "Management Authority Multi-stakeholder" was found as a form of the collaborative approach in carrying out the turtle conservation among institutional managers with other key stakeholders. Consolidation of these institutions need to be carried out by non-governmental organizations, i.e. Conservation International (Indonesia) Corridor Kaimana and local government, i.e. the Department of Marine and Fisheries, Department of tourism and culture along with Indigenous Peoples. So policy integration among sectors as well as the consistency and coherence should be coherent in the approach to building synergy with policies of sustainable management of turtle conservation in the region of Venu Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaimana, West Papua.

Color coding and directional selectivity (DS) of retinal neurons were studied in the Pseudemys turtle by using similar intracellular recording and staining techniques as in the preceding paper (J. Ammermuller and H. Kolb, 1995, J. Comp.... more

Color coding and directional selectivity (DS) of retinal neurons were studied in the Pseudemys turtle by using similar intracellular recording and staining techniques as in the preceding paper (J. Ammermuller and H. Kolb, 1995, J. Comp. Neurol. 358:l-34). Color-coded responses were elicited by red (621 or 694 nm), green (525 or 514 nm), and blue (455 nm) light flashes. In addition to redigreen and yellow/blue types of chromaticity horizontal cells, in our sample of 305 identified cells we found that 17% of bipolar cells, 6.5% of amacrine cells, and 18% of ganglion cells exhibit color-coded responses. DS responses were found in 37% of the tested ganglion cells and 41% of the tested amacrine cells.

When phylogenetic trees constructed from morphological and molecular evidence disagree (i.e. are incongruent) it has been suggested that the differences are spurious or that the molecular results should be preferred a priori. Comparing... more

When phylogenetic trees constructed from morphological and molecular evidence disagree (i.e. are incongruent) it has been suggested that the differences are spurious or that the molecular results should be preferred a priori. Comparing trees can increase confidence (congruence), or demonstrate that at least one tree is incorrect (incongruence). Statistical analyses of 181 molecular and 49 morphological trees shows that incongruence is greater between than within the morphological and molecular partitions, and this difference is significant for the molecular partition. Because the level of incongruence between a pair of trees gives a minimum bound on how much error is present in the two trees, our results indicate that the level of error may be underestimated by congruence within partitions. Thus comparisons between morphological and molecular trees are particularly useful for detecting this incongruence (spurious or otherwise). Molecular trees have higher average congruence than morphological trees, but the difference is not significant, and both within-and between-partition incongruence is much lower than expected by chance alone. Our results suggest that both molecular and morphological trees are, in general, useful approximations of a common underlying phylogeny and thus, when molecules and morphology clash, molecular phylogenies should not be considered more reliable a priori.

Environmental conditions within the nest, notably temperature and moisture of substrate, exert a powerful influence during embryogenesis in oviparous reptiles. The influence of fluctuating nest temperatures has been experimentally... more

Environmental conditions within the nest, notably temperature and moisture of substrate, exert a powerful influence during embryogenesis in oviparous reptiles. The influence of fluctuating nest temperatures has been experimentally examined in different reptile species; however, similar experiments using moisture as the key variable are lacking. In this article, we examine the effect of various substrate moisture regimes during incubation on different traits (egg mass, incubation length, and hatchling mass) in a chelonian species with flexible-shelled eggs, the red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans). Our results show that the rate of water uptake by the eggs was higher in wet than in dry substrate and varied across development. More important, during the first third of development, the egg mass changes were relatively independent of the soil moisture level; they became very sensitive to moisture levels during the other two-thirds. Moreover, hydric conditions exerted a strong influence on the eggs' long-term sensitivity to the moisture of the substrate. Even short-term episodes of high or low levels of moisture modified permanently their water sensitivity, notably through modification of eggshell shape and volume, and in turn entailed significant effects on hatchling mass (and hence offspring quality). Such complex influences of fluctuating moisture levels at various incubation stages on hatchling phenotype better reflect the natural situation, compared to experiments based on stable, albeit different, moisture levels.

Plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin were determined in 12 loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) after oral administration. Six turtles in group 1 and group 2 received enrofloxacin at 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg of body... more

Plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin were determined in 12 loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) after oral administration. Six turtles in group 1 and group 2 received enrofloxacin at 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Blood was collected from the cervical sinus before administration and at timed intervals up to 168 hr following administration. Plasma concentrations of enrofloxacin were determined using a microbiologic assay. The mean peak plasma concentration (C max ) was 4.07 g/ml and 21.30 g/ml for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Plasma levels were detectable at 168 hr postadministration, with mean values of 0.380 g/ml for group 1 and 2.769 g/ml for group 2. The mean elimination half-life for enrofloxacin was 37.80 hr for group 1 and 54.42 hr for group 2. These findings indicated that enrofloxacin is absorbed following oral administration in loggerhead sea turtles, and blood levels are maintained up to 168 hr following administration.

We report here the observation of an adult T. dorbigni specimen in and artificial pond located approximately 2500 Km from its natural distribution range at 08:30 on December 29, 2010 at the edge of a pond (10.980206° S and 37.041564° W,... more

We report here the observation of an adult T. dorbigni specimen in and artificial pond located approximately 2500 Km from its natural distribution range at 08:30 on December 29, 2010 at the edge of a pond (10.980206° S and 37.041564° W, Datum SAD-69) at 4 m a.m.s.l. (Figure 2). The pond was one of a group of artificial lagoons at the outskirts of the city of Aracaju,
Sergipe State, northeastern Brazil.

Marine turtles spend more than 90% of their life underwater and have been termed surfacers as opposed to divers. Nonetheless turtles have been reported occasionally to float motionless at the surface but the reasons for this behaviour are... more

Marine turtles spend more than 90% of their life underwater and have been termed surfacers as opposed to divers. Nonetheless turtles have been reported occasionally to float motionless at the surface but the reasons for this behaviour are not clear. We investigated the location, timing and duration of extended surface times (ESTs) in 10 free-ranging loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) and the possible relationship to water temperature and diving activity recorded via satellite relay data loggers for 101-450 days. For one turtle that dived only in offshore areas, ESTs contributed 12% of the time whereas for the other turtles ESTs contributed 0.4-1.8% of the time. ESTs lasted on average 90 min but were mostly infrequent and irregular, excluding the involvement of a fundamental regulatory function. However, 82% of the ESTs occurred during daylight, mostly around noon, suggesting a dependence on solar radiation. For three turtles, there was an appreciable (7°C to 10.5°C) temperature decrease with depth for dives during periods when ESTs occurred frequently, suggesting a re-warming function of EST to compensate for decreased body temperatures, possibly to enhance digestive efficiency. A positive correlation between body mass and EST duration supported this explanation. By contrast, night-active turtles that exceeded their calculated aerobic dive limits in 7.6-16% of the dives engaged in nocturnal ESTs, probably for lactate clearance. This is the first evidence that loggerhead turtles may refrain from diving for at least two reasons, either to absorb solar radiation or to recover from anaerobic activity.

discussed when fibropapilloma (FP)associated turtle herpesvirus (FPTHV) became established in Hawaiian populations of sea turtles without citing the earliest records of FPs in Hawaiian sea turtles (11). However, this was rather... more

discussed when fibropapilloma (FP)associated turtle herpesvirus (FPTHV) became established in Hawaiian populations of sea turtles without citing the earliest records of FPs in Hawaiian sea turtles (11). However, this was rather significant to their discussion since the records occurred only 10 years (from 1947 to 1952) ( ) after the first report in the Atlantic (9, 10) (Florida Keys, 1937) and thus suggested that FP was worldwide and not introduced into the Pacific (11), as their genetic data also would suggest. Greenblatt et al. (4) stated that FP is only found in green (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), and olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) sea turtles. While these may be the most commonly infected species, FP has been found in all sea turtle species (hawksbill sea turtles [Eretomochelys imbricata] [3, 11], even in Hawaii [11]; flatback sea turtles [Natator depressus] [7]; Kemp's Ridley sea turtles [L. kempii] [1, 6]; leatherback sea turtles [Dermochelys coriacea] [8]; and their hybrids [loggerhead ϫ green sea turtles and loggerhead ϫ hawksbill sea turtles]). Greenblatt et al. (4) discussed the recent worldwide increase in cases of FP without citing the paper that presented cases throughout the Caribbean and first suggested this was a worldwide panzootic (12). They also omitted the later review of FP (7). Unlike most leeches, which must leave the host to reproduce, Ozobranchus branchiatus and O. margoi can complete their complete reproductive cycle on the turtle hosts. Thus, they are not necessarily limited to coastal areas, as stated by Greenblatt et al. (4). Greenblatt et al. (5) somehow managed to publish an entire paper on these leeches without ever explaining exactly which species they were studying, nor they did state the species (Ozobranchus sp.) in reference 4. Both O. branchiatus and O. margoi occur on Hawaiian green sea turtles (2). It might be instructive in their rebuttal to explain which species of leech they analyzed. We thank the late Charles E. Cutress, retired professor, Department of Marine Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, for the photograph and information on the Hawaiian FPs.

We examined the occurrence of marine debris in the gastrointestinal tract of 54 loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) found stranded or incidentally captured dead by fisheries in the Adriatic Sea, with a curved carapace length of... more

We examined the occurrence of marine debris in the gastrointestinal tract of 54 loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) found stranded or incidentally captured dead by fisheries in the Adriatic Sea, with a curved carapace length of 25.0–79.2 cm. Marine debris was present in 35.2% of turtles and included soft plastic, ropes, Styrofoam and monofilament lines found in 68.4%, 42.1%, 15.8% and 5.3% of loggerheads that have ingested debris, respectively. The dry mass of debris per turtle was low, ranging from <0.01 to 0.71 g, and the ingestion was not significantly affected by sex or body size (all p > 0.05). Marine debris averaged 2.2 ± 8.0% of dry mass of gut content, with a maximum of 35% found in a juvenile turtle that most likely died due to debris ingestion. Considering the relatively high occurrence of debris intake and possible sub-lethal effects of even small quantities of marine debris, this can be an additional factor of concern for loggerheads in the Adriatic Sea.► Marine debris was ingested by 35.2% loggerheads foraging in neritic habitats of the Adriatic. ► Soft plastic was the most frequent type of debris found in digestive tract. ► Debris ingestion was not significantly affected by sex or body size of turtles. ► High occurrence of debris intake represents a factor of concern for loggerheads in the Adriatic Sea.

Terrestrially hibernating reptiles that live in seasonally cold climates need effective strategies of cold hardiness to survive the winter. Use of thermally buffered hibernacula is very important but when exposure to temperatures below... more

Terrestrially hibernating reptiles that live in seasonally cold climates need effective strategies of cold hardiness to survive the winter. Use of thermally buffered hibernacula is very important but when exposure to temperatures below 0°C cannot be avoided, either freeze avoidance (supercooling) or freeze tolerance strategies can be employed, sometimes by the same species depending on environmental conditions. Several reptile species display ecologically relevant freeze tolerance, surviving for extended times with 50% or more of their total body water frozen. The use of colligative cryoprotectants by reptiles is poorly developed but metabolic and enzymatic adaptations providing anoxia tolerance and antioxidant defense are important aids to freezing survival. New studies using DNA array screening are examining the role of freeze-responsive gene expression. Three categories of freeze responsive genes have been identified from recent screenings of liver and heart from freeze-exposed (5 h post-nucleation at À2.5°C) hatchling painted turtles, Chrysemys picta marginata. These genes encode (a) proteins involved in iron binding, (b) enzymes of antioxidant defense, and (c) serine protease inhibitors. The same genes were up-regulated by anoxia exposure (4 h of N 2 gas exposure at 5°C) of the hatchlings which suggests that these defenses for freeze tolerance are aimed at counteracting the injurious effects of the ischemia imposed by plasma freezing.

Fisheries bycatch is a global threat to marine megafauna. Environmental laws require bycatch assessment for protected species, but this is difficult when bycatch is rare. Low bycatch rates, combined with low observer coverage, may lead to... more

Fisheries bycatch is a global threat to marine megafauna. Environmental laws require bycatch assessment for protected species, but this is difficult when bycatch is rare. Low bycatch rates, combined with low observer coverage, may lead to biased, imprecise estimates when using standard ratio estimators. Bayesian model-based approaches incorporate uncertainty, produce less volatile estimates, and enable probabilistic evaluation of estimates relative to management thresholds. Here, we demonstrate a pragmatic decision-making process that uses Bayesian model-based inferences to estimate the probability of exceeding management thresholds for bycatch in fisheries with < 100% observer coverage. Using the California drift gillnet fishery as a case study, we (1) model rates of rare-event bycatch and mortality using Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo estimation methods and 20 years of observer data; (2) predict unobserved counts of bycatch and mortality; (3) infer expected annual mortality;...

To study processing of UV stimuli in the retina of the turtle, Trachemys dorbignii, we recorded intracellular responses to spectral light from 89 cells: 54 horizontal (47 monophasic, five (R0G) biphasic and two (Y0B) triphasic), 14... more

To study processing of UV stimuli in the retina of the turtle, Trachemys dorbignii, we recorded intracellular responses to spectral light from 89 cells: 54 horizontal (47 monophasic, five (R0G) biphasic and two (Y0B) triphasic), 14 bipolar, 12 amacrine, and nine ganglion cells. Spectral sensitivities were measured with monochromatic flashes or with the dynamic constant response method in dark or

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are recognized manmade threats to sea turtle populations, but substantial uncertainty exists surrounding their exposure to contaminants and their sensitivity to toxic effects. This uncertainty creates... more

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are recognized manmade threats to sea turtle populations, but substantial uncertainty exists surrounding their exposure to contaminants and their sensitivity to toxic effects. This uncertainty creates difficulty for conservation managers to make informed decisions for the recovery of these threatened species. To provide baseline concentrations and spatial comparisons, we measured a large suite of POPs in loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) egg yolk samples collected from 44 nests in three distinct U.

Several long-term mark recapture studies have been conducted on box turtles (Terrapene c. carolina) providing valuable information on life span, basic demography, home range, and apparent effects of environmental changes on box turtle... more

Several long-term mark recapture studies have been conducted on box turtles (Terrapene c. carolina) providing valuable information on life span, basic demography, home range, and apparent effects of environmental changes on box turtle survival. One of the longest studied populations was first marked in 1942 on the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Maryland, and has been surveyed every 10 years

The aim of this study was to determine the normal computed tomography (CT) appearance of the vertebral column and coelomic structures of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) and to use three-dimensional (3D) and multiplanar... more

The aim of this study was to determine the normal computed tomography (CT) appearance of the vertebral column and coelomic structures of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) and to use three-dimensional (3D) and multiplanar reconstructions to indicate the position of each organ in relation to the vertebrae and carapace. Transverse sections of 1 mm thickness were performed in seven clinically healthy and in five dead loggerhead sea turtles using multi-detector CT equipment. A computer workstation was used for multiplanar and 3D reconstructions. Dead turtles were frozen and sectioned in the transverse, dorsal and sagittal planes to compare the anatomical structures' appearance with CT images. Clinically relevant organs including the oesophagus, stomach, trachea, bronchi, lungs, liver, gallbladder, heart, spleen, kidneys and vertebral canal were identified in CT images. Computed tomography provides detailed information on the respiratory system and skeleton; the location of the coelomic structures with respect to the carapace and the vertebrae that is provided in this work will facilitate the use of other ancillary diagnostic techniques such as ultrasound, radiography and biopsy, thereby improving safety of access in surgical procedures.

Galá pagos tortoises possess two main shell forms, domed and saddleback, that correlate with the biogeographic history of this species group. However, the lack of description of morphological shell variation within and among populations... more

Galá pagos tortoises possess two main shell forms, domed and saddleback, that correlate with the biogeographic history of this species group. However, the lack of description of morphological shell variation within and among populations has prevented the understanding of the contribution of evolutionary forces and the potential role of ontogeny in shaping morphological shell differences. Here, we analyze two lineages of Galá pagos tortoises inhabiting Santa Cruz Island by applying geometric morphometrics in combination with a photogrammetry 3D reconstruction method on a set of tortoises of different ages (from juvenile to adult). The aim of this study is to describe morphological features on the carapace that could be used for taxonomic recognition by taking into account confounding factors, such as the morphological changes occurring during growth.

Clutches of leatherback turtles, Dermochelys coriacea, have lower hatching success than those of other sea turtles, but causes of high embryonic mortality are unknown. We measured characteristics of clutches along with spatial and... more

Clutches of leatherback turtles, Dermochelys coriacea, have lower hatching success than those of other sea turtles, but causes of high embryonic mortality are unknown. We measured characteristics of clutches along with spatial and temporal changes in PO 2 and temperature during incubation to determine the extent to which they affected the developmental environment of leatherback embryos. Minimum PO 2 in nests decreased as both the total number and mass of metabolizing embryos increased. Increases in both the number and mass of metabolizing embryos caused an increase in maximum nest temperature. However, neither PO 2 nor temperature was correlated with hatching success. Our measurements of relatively high nest PO 2 (lowest 17.1 kPa or 16.9% O 2 ) indicate that hypoxia apparently does not cause the low hatching success of leatherback clutches. Oxygen partial pressure increased and temperature decreased from the center toward the periphery of leatherback nests. We inferred from these measurements that positions of eggs within nests vary in quality and potentially affect overall developmental success of entire clutches. The large metabolic mass of leatherback clutches and limits to gas flux imposed by the sand create a situation in which leatherback embryos collectively affect their own environment.

Dead stranded sea turtles were recovered and examined to determine the impact of anthropogenic debris and ®shery activities on sea turtles on the coast of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Esophagus/stomach contents of 38 juvenile green... more

Dead stranded sea turtles were recovered and examined to determine the impact of anthropogenic debris and ®shery activities on sea turtles on the coast of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Esophagus/stomach contents of 38 juvenile green Chelonia mydas, 10 adults and sub-adults loggerhead Caretta caretta, and two leatherback Dermochelys coriacea turtles (adult or sub-adult) included plastic bags as the main debris ingested, predominated by white and colorless pieces. The ingestion of anthropogenic debris accounted for the death of 13.2% of the green turtles examined. Signs of damage over the body and carapace indicated that ®shing activities caused the death of 13.6% (3/22) of loggerheads and 1.5% (1/56) of green turtles. Therefore, it appears that direct and indirect eects of ®shing activities may pose a threat to these species in Brazilian waters. Other sources of plastic debris should be investigated as well as the direct impact of ®sheries, especially bottom trawl and gill nets, in order to establish eective conservation action. Ó

Recent studies document unprecedented declines in marine top predators that can initiate trophic cascades. Predicting the wider ecological consequences of these declines requires understanding how predators influence communities by... more

Recent studies document unprecedented declines in marine top predators that can initiate trophic cascades. Predicting the wider ecological consequences of these declines requires understanding how predators influence communities by inflicting mortality on prey and inducing behavioral modifications (risk effects). Both mechanisms are important in marine communities, and a sole focus on the effects of predator-inflicted mortality might severely underestimate the importance of predators. We outline direct and indirect consequences of marine predator declines and propose an integrated predictive framework that includes risk effects, which appear to be strongest for long-lived prey species and when resources are abundant. We conclude that marine predators should be managed for the maintenance of both density-and risk-driven ecological processes, and not demographic persistence alone.

We investigated the phylogeography of wood turtles, Glyptemys insculpta, in North America using 750 bp of the mitochondrial control region from 117 individuals sampled at 29 localities across the species' range. A total of 21... more

We investigated the phylogeography of wood turtles, Glyptemys insculpta, in North America using 750 bp of the mitochondrial control region from 117 individuals sampled at 29 localities across the species' range. A total of 21 haplotypes were identified and little genetic variation was found. The highest pairwise difference was 2%. From nested clade analysis (NCA), one main postglacial dispersal route was inferred along the east coast, with subsequent westward dispersal. NCA further revealed some patterns of restricted gene flow/dispersal. We propose that wood turtles experienced a combined effect of bottleneck during the Pleistocene as well as of selective sweep, which produced the low level of variation observed. Following the Pleistocene, wood turtles would have undergone a rapid northward expansion from a common southern refugium as glaciers retreated. These findings shed light on where to direct conservation priorities, on conservation strategies needed, and on the potential...

Until recently, freshwater turtles were thought to be silent reptiles, neither vocalizing nor hearing very well. We recorded individuals in nature, captivity, and during interactions between adults and hatchlings and show that hatchlings... more

Until recently, freshwater turtles were thought to be silent reptiles, neither vocalizing nor hearing very well. We recorded individuals in nature, captivity, and during interactions between adults and hatchlings and show that hatchlings and adult turtles, Podocnemis expansa, produce sounds in and out of the water. Sounds were emitted by hatchlings inside the egg, in open nests, in the river, and in captive conditions. Adult females were recorded producing sounds in the river, while basking, while nesting, and in captivity. Females were recorded in the river approaching and responding to hatchling sounds. We detected 2,122 sounds, classified in 11 different types. These data suggest that there is sound communication between adults and hatchings and that these sounds may be used to congregate hatchlings with adults for mass migration. Hatchlings and females with transmitters were found migrating together. We consider these findings as the first evidence of acoustic communication mediating posthatching parental care in chelonians. We anticipate that our findings will influence the way turtle behavior is studied and interpreted, and add communication and sound pollution to turtle conservation concerns.

Tar Creek Superfund Site (TCSFS) was heavily mined from the 1890s to 1970 and currently is contaminated with lead, zinc, and cadmium. Flow cytometry (FCM) was used to measure variation in nuclear DNA content of red blood cells collected... more

Tar Creek Superfund Site (TCSFS) was heavily mined from the 1890s to 1970 and currently is contaminated with lead, zinc, and cadmium. Flow cytometry (FCM) was used to measure variation in nuclear DNA content of red blood cells collected from Trachemys scripta living within TCSFS and reference sites, Lake Carl Blackwell (LCB) and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (SNWR). We also used atomic absorption spectrometry to measure Pb in blood and carapace and Cd in blood samples of turtles from TCSFS and SNWR. Mean coefficients of variation around the G 1 peak ranged from 5.33 to 5.48 and showed no significant difference between contaminated and reference populations; however, there was a significantly higher frequency of aneuploidy at TCSFS when compared with both reference populations. Blood Pb levels were not significantly different between TCSFS and SNWR populations. Pb levels in carapace samples did not differ significantly between sites; however, Pb levels were higher in carapace than blood for both populations. Blood Cd was significantly higher in animals at TCSFS than SNWR.

The unparalleled ability of turtle neck retraction is possible in three different modes, which characterize stem turtles, living side-necked (Pleurodira), and hidden-necked (Cryptodira) turtles, respectively. Despite the conservatism in... more

The unparalleled ability of turtle neck retraction is possible in three different modes, which characterize stem turtles, living side-necked (Pleurodira), and hidden-necked (Cryptodira) turtles, respectively. Despite the conservatism in vertebral count among turtles, there is significant functional and morphological regionalization in the cervical vertebral column. Since Hox genes play a fundamental role in determining the differentiation in vertebra morphology and based on our reconstruction of evolutionary genetics in deep time, we hypothesize genetic differences among the turtle groups and between turtles and other land vertebrates. We correlated anterior Hox gene expression and the quantifiable shape of the vertebrae to investigate the morphological modularity in the neck across living and extinct turtles. This permitted the reconstruction of the hypothetical ancestral Hox code pattern of the whole turtle clade. The scenario of the evolution of axial patterning in turtles indicates shifts in the spatial expression of HoxA-5 in relation to the reduction of cervical ribs in modern turtles and of HoxB-5 linked with a lower morphological differentiation between the anterior cervical vertebrae observed in cryptodirans. By comparison with the mammalian pattern, we illustrate how the fixed count of eight cervical vertebrae in turtles resulted from the emergence of the unique turtle shell.

Su abundancia actual es muy inferior a la de tres tiempos generacionales transcurridos, considerando que el tiempo generacional de la especie es de 50 años [41]. Entre 1940 y 1960, en la costa noreste de la península de Paria se... more

Su abundancia actual es muy inferior a la de tres tiempos generacionales transcurridos, considerando que el tiempo generacional de la especie es de 50 años [41]. Entre 1940 y 1960, en la costa noreste de la península de Paria se sacrificaron centenares de hembras anualmente [13,35] y actualmente sólo desovan menos de media docena de hembras en algunas playas de esa región [13,35,42], con lo cual se infiere una disminución poblacional >90% en una de las áreas reproductivas clave en el país, aunque no se pueda estimar el número de hembras adultas. En años recientes también se reportó una reducción considerable en la anidación en el Estado Miranda [5]. En el Golfo de Venezuela el impacto de las pesquerías intencionales y accidentales es intenso y constante [14­15,17,43­46]. La disminución poblacional al nororiente del país y la falta de recuperación observada de la población de hembras en la Península de Paria y la persistente captura incidental en una de sus más importantes áreas de alimentación ­ el Golfo de Venezuela – conduce a estimar su condición en Venezuela como En Peligro Crítico según la UICN [47,48]. Sin embargo, se han identificado nuevas áreas de anidación en el país y considerando el aporte por la inmigración desde países vecinos, el riesgo a la extinción es menos probable que si la población estuviera aislada, por lo que el taxón debe seguir siendo En Peligro A2acd.

Nomenclatural information concerning the large, well-publicized softshell turtles in Hoan Kiem Lake, central Hanoi, Vietnam is discussed. In 2000 Ha Dinh Duc formally described these turtles as Rafetus leloii. Comparison of descriptive... more

Nomenclatural information concerning the large, well-publicized softshell turtles in Hoan Kiem Lake, central Hanoi, Vietnam is discussed. In 2000 Ha Dinh Duc formally described these turtles as Rafetus leloii. Comparison of descriptive features of R. leloii with those of R. swinhoei, previously reported from northern Vietnam (including Hanoi), forces the conclusion that the two taxa are synonymous.

Between 2011 and 2020, the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre's veterinary hospital admitted 6,335 turtles of eight different species, with 3,246 being midland painted turtles (Chrysemys picta marginata). At the time of admission from the... more

Between 2011 and 2020, the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre's veterinary hospital admitted 6,335 turtles of eight different species, with 3,246 being midland painted turtles (Chrysemys picta marginata). At the time of admission from the wild, aural abscesses were present in 26 of the painted turtles (0.8%). Aural abscesses were never observed in juvenile turtles and were not found in any other species of turtle admitted to the hospital. An equal number of males and females were affected. All cases showed signs of chronicity. Abscesses alone did not appear to affect the overall health of turtles regardless of clinical signs. All turtles with abscesses as the sole cause for admission were released after successful treatment.

ALIMENTAÇÃO DE FILHOTES E JUVENIS DE TRACAJÁS (Podocnemis unifilis) E TARTARUGAS (Podocnemis expansa) NA NATUREZA E EM SISTEMAS DE CRIAÇÃO COMUNITÁRIA NO AMAZONAS RESUMO: O consumo de quelônios faz parte da culinária amazônica. O manejo... more

ALIMENTAÇÃO DE FILHOTES E JUVENIS DE TRACAJÁS (Podocnemis unifilis) E TARTARUGAS (Podocnemis expansa) NA NATUREZA E EM SISTEMAS DE CRIAÇÃO COMUNITÁRIA NO AMAZONAS RESUMO: O consumo de quelônios faz parte da culinária amazônica. O manejo de base comunitária do Programa Pé-de-pincha/UFAM tem recuperado populações de tracajás (Podocnemis unifilis) e tartarugas (P. expansa) em 123 comunidades do Amazonas e Pará. Em 2017, no Amazonas, foram criadas normas para o sistema de criação comunitária de quelônios. Este estudo objetivou buscar informações sobre os itens alimentares de filhotes de tartarugas e tracajás na natureza, avaliar seus valores nutricionais, e testá-los na dieta de filhotes em berçários de criações comunitárias em Barreirinha/AM. Foram realizadas 4 expedições (seca, enchente, cheia e vazante) quando foram coletados, identificados e feita análise bromatológica de frutos, folhas e sementes consumidos por quelônios que pudessem ser usados como ingredientes em rações alternativas. Foi feita a captura de tracajás e tartarugas com redes trammel-net, mergulho e viração nas praias, para coletar amostras do conteúdo estomacal pela técnica de flushing e identificação dos itens alimentares. Foram identificados 55 frutos (14 na seca; 41 na cheia) com 7,4±2,9% (4,3-14%) de proteína bruta (PB) na sua composição. Foram capturados 77 tracajás e 3 tartarugas, dos quais foram coletadas 58 amostras de conteúdo estomacal, com vestígios de sementes, frutos, folhas, conchas bivalves e gastrópodes. Foi realizado um ensaio de competição entre filhotes de tracajá e tartarugas alimentados com 50% ração+50% frutos versus filhotes alimentados com a ração TC-45, Nutrispiscis©, alevinagem. Não houve diferença entre o peso de filhotes de tracajás e tartarugas alimentados exclusivamente com ração TC45 e a ração alternativa/frutos locais, tornando viável seu uso na dieta dos filhotes.

Five species of reptiles present in tropical Australia are considered in this study. These are the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata); the northern long-necked turtle (Chelodina rugosa); the taipan snake (Oxyuranus scutellatus);... more

Five species of reptiles present in tropical Australia are considered in this study. These are the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata); the northern long-necked turtle (Chelodina rugosa); the taipan snake (Oxyuranus scutellatus); the freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni); and the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). Background information is provided on the ecological status of each of these species and after outlining their human use (including commercial use) and management in Australia, an experimental survey method is introduced and results from its application are reported and analysed. The survey method involves two serial surveys of a sample of 204 Brisbane (Australia) residents. The first survey is based on the initial knowledge of the respondents of the reptile species and for the subsequent survey the knowledge available to participants about these species is experimentally increased. These surveys provide information on the amount of knowledge possessed by this sample of the public about the relevant reptile species, the respondents’ attitudes to these species (including their attitudes to commercial use), respondents’ support for the survival of these reptiles and for their conservation. Furthermore, data is gathered from the surveys on the comparative amount respondents’ state they would be prepared to contribute to support the conservation of each of these focal reptile species. Respondents are asked to assume that they are given $1,000 and that this can only be allocated to the conservation of these reptiles. Later, however, they are also given the option to donate this money to any charity concerned with human welfare. The contingent valuation data for each of the reptile species are used to isolate factors that influence the comparative allocation of conservation funds to each of the relevant reptile species. Factors considered include the extent of the respondents’ knowledge of the species, the stated degree to which respondents’ reported that they liked or disliked the species, and ethical views of the respondents. Implications of the findings for the theory of economic valuation of wildlife species and for of the focal reptile species in Australia are discussed in concluding this chapter.

The construction of rattles from turtle (Testudines) shells is an important consideration when distinguishing between food and non-food uses of archaeological turtle remains. However, the identification of turtle shell rattles in... more

The construction of rattles from turtle (Testudines) shells is an important consideration when distinguishing between food and non-food uses of archaeological turtle remains. However, the identification of turtle shell rattles in prehistoric contexts can be quite challenging. Equifinality is a major problem for being able to distinguish rattles from food refuse, particularly when a carapace is not burnt or modified. In addition, diversity, abundance, and distribution of Chelonian taxa varies throughout the southeastern United States, creating differential access for indigenous groups. Thus, multiple lines of evidence are needed from archaeological, ethnographic, and ethnohistoric records to successfully argue for the production and use of turtle shell rattles in the prehistoric southeastern United States. In this article, we present examples of turtle shell rattles in the southeastern United States to highlight their function and use by indigenous groups, the construction process, and several common characteristics, or an object trait list, that can aid in the identification of fragmentary turtle shell rattle remains. Proper identification of turtle remains is important for interpreting faunal remains and may be of interest to indigenous groups claiming cultural items under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

O levantamento de crocodilianos foi realizado na Floresta e Resex Canutama, Floresta Tapauá, RDS Madeira e RDS Igapó Açu, foram percorridos cerca de 723 km de rios e lagos, com registro de 1005 jacarés das espécies C.crocodilus (63,5%),... more

O levantamento de crocodilianos foi realizado na Floresta e Resex Canutama, Floresta
Tapauá, RDS Madeira e RDS Igapó Açu, foram percorridos cerca de 723 km de rios e lagos,
com registro de 1005 jacarés das espécies C.crocodilus (63,5%), M.niger (36,1%), P.trigonatus
(0,3%) e P.palpebrosus (0,1%). No diagnóstico de quelônios foram identificadas 13
espécies:P.expansa, P.unifilis, P.sextuberculata, P.dumerilianus, C.fimbriatus, P.raniceps,
P.nasuta, P.gibbus, R.punctularia, K.scorpiodes, P.platycephala, C.carbonaria e C.denticulata.
O consumo de quelônios para subsistência e para a comercialização (48%) ainda é comum nas
UC sendo as espécies preferidas tracajá, tartaruga, cabeçudo e iaçá. Dos animais
comercializados, cerca de 30-88,9% são vendidos nas próprias comunidades, 18-55,6% vão para
as cidades mais próximas e 13 % para regatão. O preço médio varia de R$15,00/iaçá a
R$163,00/tartaruga.Foram capturados, medidos e marcados 123 quelônios.

Blood parameters are useful to measure physiological disturbances in chelonians. Thus they can provide important information for the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases. The aim of this paper was to determine the reference range of plasma... more

Blood parameters are useful to measure physiological disturbances in chelonians. Thus they can provide important information for the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases. The aim of this paper was to determine the reference range of plasma glucose, total protein, triglycerides, cholesterol and urea levels, as well as hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood cell, thrombocyte and white blood cell counts for healthy Podocnemis expansa (Schweigger, 1812), bred in a turtle farm in the Amazonas State, Brazil. Plasma glucose, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), lymphocytes and heterophils were the parameters with the smallest variations. Significant (p < 0.001) correlations between red blood cells count and hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration were found. Turtle P. expansa had lymphocytes, azurophils, heterophils, eosinophils and basophils with morphologic features similar to the ones of others turtles species. No investigated blood parameter was influenced by sex. In further studies, the established reference ranges might be useful for the health assessment of this turtle species.

Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) are widespread in U.S. eastern deciduous forests, yet many populations are experiencing dramatic declines. Herein, we present an assessment of annual survival for adult eastern box turtles... more

Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) are widespread in U.S. eastern deciduous forests, yet many populations are experiencing dramatic declines. Herein, we present an assessment of annual survival for adult eastern box turtles that were radio-tracked over a period of 2 y. Using a known fates Kaplan-Meier estimator, the baseline annual survival estimate for adult eastern box turtles in Indiana’s south-central region is 96.2%. Annual survival rates varied slightly between the hibernal period (95.6%) and the active period (96.7%). These initial data provide wildlife managers with a baseline from which a recovery period can be calculated. In areas where road mortality and human interface are high, this estimate should be adjusted to ensure the time for recovery is adequate. Further research is recommended over generations and age-classes to better inform management of this protected species.

Una pequeña guía para la identificación de fauna silvestre (aves, mamíferos, anfibios y reptiles) dentro del Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Barra del Colorado. Diseñada para que los pobladores y visitantes de esta área protegida... more

Una pequeña guía para la identificación de fauna silvestre (aves, mamíferos, anfibios y reptiles) dentro del Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Barra del Colorado. Diseñada para que los pobladores y visitantes de esta área protegida inicien sus pasos en la observación de la Naturaleza. Esta guía es útil para el Caribe Noreste y Zona Norte de Costa Rica.

Although some sea turtle populations are showing encouraging signs of recovery, others continue to decline. Reversing population declines requires an understanding of the primary factor(s) that underlie this persistent demographic trend.... more

Although some sea turtle populations are showing encouraging signs of recovery, others continue to decline. Reversing population declines requires an understanding of the primary factor(s) that underlie this persistent demographic trend. The list of putative factors includes direct turtle and egg harvest, egg predation, loss or degradation of nesting beach habitat, fisheries bycatch, pollution, and large-scale changes in oceanographic conditions and nutrient availability. Recently, fisheries bycatch, in particular bycatch from longline fisheries, has received increased attention and has been proposed as a primary source of turtle mortality. We reviewed the existing data on the relative impact of longline bycatch on sea turtle populations. Although bycatch rates from individual longline vessels are extremely low, the amount of gear deployed by longline vessels suggests that cumulative bycatch of turtles from older age classes is substantial. Current estimates suggest that even if pelagic longlines are not the largest single source of fisheries-related mortality, longline bycatch is high enough to warrant management actions in all fleets that encounter sea turtles. Nevertheless, preliminary data also suggest that bycatch from gillnets and trawl fisheries is equally high or higher than longline bycatch with far higher mortality rates. Until gillnet and trawl fisheries are subject to the same level of scrutiny given to pelagic longlines, our understanding of the overall impact of fisheries bycatch on vulnerable sea turtle populations will be incomplete.

Here we examine the successes, challenges and lessons learned from the Arnavon Islands Community Marine Conservation Area (ACMCA) which was first established in 1995. We review relevant literature and use material from interviews... more

Here we examine the successes, challenges and lessons learned from the Arnavon Islands Community Marine Conservation Area (ACMCA) which was first established in 1995. We review relevant literature and use material from interviews conducted with 28 key informants, all of whom have had a significant involvement in the ACMCA at some stage.
The ACMCA aims to conserve all species inhabiting the Arnavon Islands, but the primary inspiration for funding the work has been the presence of a large hawksbill turtle rookery on the islands. The turtles, were recognised as seriously threatened by hunting by the 1960s, and became the focus of systematic research and protection efforts by the mid-
1970s. After initial conservation failures, the government scientists and conservationists recognised that they needed to involve the adjacent communities of Kia, Wagina and Katupika in the conservation project in order for it to succeed.
A coordinated process of consultation and negotiation therefore commenced in the early 1990s and culminated in the establishment of the ACMCA in 1995. A national ban on the export of hawksbill shells (‘bekko’ or ‘tortoiseshell’) was also enacted into law in 1993.
Recent analysis of long term data on the hawksbill nesting population at Arnavons by Hamilton and collaborators (2015) has demonstrated unequivocally that there has been significant recovery. This review has been commissioned to examine the primary reasons for this, along with remaining challenges and lessons learned thus far from the experience.
Along with most of our interviewees, we are unable to separate the importance of the spatial protection that the ACMCA has afforded nesting female hawksbills, from the broader protective effects of the ban on bekko exports that was implemented two years prior to the commencement of the spatial protection. Both are likely to have been important.
However recent data shows that most of the 20 nesting hawksbill females, fitted with satellite trackers in the last two years at Arnavons swam almost directly to the relative safety of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia. This means that, whilst in the Solomon Islands, the protection afforded by the ACMCA may be more significant than the bekko export ban because the turtles do not move around the rest of the Solomon Islands.
The great majority of our interviewees stressed that there has been a steady increase in local acceptance of the desirability of preventing overharvesting of turtles and other marine resources at Arnavons. But poverty, the failure of a seaweed farming project at Wagina, and the existence of a lucrative black market for bekko will continue to drive a small number of people, particularly at Wagina, to continue poaching turtle, which means that the maintenance of the ranger station on Kerehikapa Island in the Arnavons is important for continued conservation.
There has also been a significant increase in appreciation of the intrinsic or existence value of turtles among many members of the ACMCA communities. This appears to have been largely driven by increased knowledge about them, which can be credited to the efforts of a number of conservationists who have shared their scientific knowledge of turtles
and other marine fauna to community stakeholders.
Community members expressed their appreciation of learning about the biology and ecology of the protected fauna, as well as their desire to learn more. They requested that all visiting scientists in future make greater efforts to engage with the communities to share their research findings and explain their interests to the community.