India

Massive Die-Off of Sea Turtles Reported on India’s Coast

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With bulging eyes and swollen necks, the carcasses of endangered Olive Ridley turtles have been observed floating in the open sea off Chennai. Over 350 dead turtles have been found washed ashore between Marina and Kovalam in just 15 days, marking a record number of deaths in the last two decades, according to sources.

The exact cause of the mass turtle deaths is yet to be determined, but initial suspicions point towards several potential factors. These may include marine pollution, entanglement in fishing nets, ingestion of plastic waste, and the destruction of their natural habitats. Climate change and rising sea temperatures could also be contributing factors, disrupting the turtles’ natural migration and nesting patterns.

India’s coastal regions, particularly along the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, are known habitats for various species of sea turtles, including the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. The mass deaths of these turtles threaten not only the species’ survival but also the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem.

Local authorities, along with conservation organizations, have launched investigations to determine the cause of these deaths. Efforts are also being intensified to safeguard nesting sites, reduce pollution, and implement stricter fishing regulations to prevent further harm to marine life.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact human activities have on the environment and the need for concerted efforts to protect marine biodiversity. Conservationists are urging immediate action to prevent similar occurrences in the future and to ensure the long-term survival of these vital marine creatures.

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