Hawksbill turtle

Hawksbill turtle
Eretmochelys imbricata
Size: 90 cm for 120 Kg

 

Geographical distribution:
Around the tropics

 

Biology:
A species typical of coral reefs, it feeds on echinoderms, molluscs, jellyfish and crustaceans using its hooked beak.  
It is one of the smallest marine turtles and is recognised by its saw-edged shell (the scales overlap each other).
Although a protected species, it is still hunted for the beauty of its black and yellow flamed scales, which are used to make craft items, pendants and frames for glasses.
Its lungs are adapted for rapid exchange of gases and its blood allows it to oxygenate its tissues efficiently even during long, deep dives, or during long siestas….at the bottom of the shark ring.

 

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