en
GIANT TURTLE
22 Aug
Giant turtle spotted off the coast of Tenerife
A rare large leatherback turtle has been spotted off the coast of Tenerife: 2.2 metres long and weighing around 500 kilograms. The sighting was made from an excursion boat near Puerto de Colón. The leatherback turtle, the largest sea turtle in the world, passes Tenerife during its ocean voyages.
With its leathery shell and powerful fins, the animal covers enormous distances and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on jellyfish. However, the species is seriously threatened by fishing, plastic pollution and the loss of nesting beaches.
Biologists are calling for better protection of this impressive but vulnerable ocean giant.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Image gallery
Share
