Why in the News?
Carcasses of Olive Ridley turtles have been found along the Visakhapatnam coast during their breeding season, raising concerns about their conservation.
About Olive Ridley Turtles:
| Details |
- Olive Ridley turtles are sea turtles known for their olive-colored carapace.
- They are carnivorous, primarily feeding on jellyfish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
- Unique mass nesting behavior (Arribada), where thousands of females lay eggs in synchronized waves on the same beach.
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| Their Habitat and Protection Status |
- Found in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
- Largest rookery (breeding colony) is at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha, India.
- Other major nesting sites include Devi River mouth (discovered in 1981) and Rushikulya river mouth (discovered in 1994).
- Protection Status:
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable
- CITES: Appendix I (No international trade)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest level of protection)
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| Conservation Efforts |
- Project Olivia by Indian Coastguard to protect the Olive Ridley turtles, especially after the Gahirmatha rookery recognition.
- Legal protections and environmental regulations safeguard nesting sites and prevent poaching.
- Olive Ridley Protection Program ensures the safety of nests and hatchlings.
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PYQ:
[2015] Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
(a) Saltwater crocodile
(b) Olive ridley turtle
(c) Gangetic dolphin
(d) Gharial |
