Chelonia

Chelonia is a term used in zoological classification with several related usages. In older and some contemporary literature, it referred to turtles as a group and, in some cases, to the genus Chelonia, which includes the green sea turtle, Chelonia mydas. In current taxonomic practice, Chelonia designates a genus within the family Cheloniidae, which is part of the order Testudines. The best-known member of this genus is Chelonia mydas, the green sea turtle.

Characteristics of Chelonia members reflect a marine lifestyle. Sea turtles in the family Cheloniidae have streamlined shells and paddle-like flippers adapted for swimming. Chelonia mydas specifically is typically brown to olive on top and lighter beneath. Adults can reach about one to 1.5 meters in length and weigh several hundred pounds. They are primarily herbivorous as adults, feeding on seagrasses and algae, though younger individuals may consume invertebrates.

Distribution and life cycle: Cheloniidae sea turtles occur in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They nest on sandy beaches, with females returning to their natal beaches to lay multiple clutches in a season. After incubation of about two months, hatchlings emerge and embark on pelagic and coastal migrations to feeding grounds.

Conservation: Sea turtles face threats from bycatch in fisheries, habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, and climate change. The conservation status varies by species and region, but many Cheloniidae members are listed as threatened or endangered by international agreements and national laws. Protection efforts include habitat preservation, bycatch reduction, and beach management to safeguard nesting sites.