Why should we save turtles?

Turtles are ancient creatures that have been around for millions of years. They play important roles in maintaining the health and balance of marine and freshwater ecosystems. However, many turtle species are endangered or threatened by human activities such as poaching, habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and accidental bycatch. Saving turtles is not only a moral duty, but also a way to protect the biodiversity and functioning of our planet.

Some of the reasons why we should save turtles are:

- Turtles help to recycle nutrients and energy in aquatic environments. They feed on dead animals, plants, and algae, preventing the spread of diseases and keeping the water clean. They also disperse seeds and fertilize the soil with their droppings, enhancing plant growth and diversity.

• Turtles help to maintain the structure and productivity of seagrass beds and coral reefs. These habitats are home to many other marine animals and provide essential services such as food, oxygen, coastal protection, and tourism. Turtles graze on seagrass, preventing it from overgrowing and blocking sunlight. They also control the population of sponges and other organisms that can damage coral reefs.
• Turtles are indicators of environmental health and change. They have a long lifespan and a wide range of habitats, making them sensitive to changes in temperature, water quality, and sea level. By monitoring their population trends and behavior, we can learn about the impacts of human activities and climate change on the oceans and freshwater systems.

- Turtles are part of our natural and cultural heritage. They have inspired many myths, legends, art forms, and scientific discoveries throughout history. They have also been used as food, medicine, ornaments, and symbols by different cultures around the world. Saving turtles means preserving their intrinsic value and diversity for future generations.