Dermochelyidae

Dermochelyidae is a family of sea turtles in the order Testudines. It includes the modern leatherback sea turtle, Dermochelys coriacea, the only living species in the family, as well as several extinct genera. Dermochelyids are distinguished by a leathery carapace that lacks the hard scutes found in most other sea turtles. The carapace is thick skin with embedded ossicles, and the plastron is reduced or absent. Adults are among the largest reptiles, typically 1.4–2.0 meters long and up to about 700 kilograms.

They have a global, pelagic distribution in all oceans except the polar regions. Leatherbacks nest on beaches worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, and undertake long migrations between nesting sites and foraging grounds. They are capable of deep and prolonged dives, with records around 1,000 meters.

Diet is primarily gelatinous prey, especially jellyfish, though other soft-bodied zooplankton may be eaten. Their bodies and limbs are adapted for efficient open-ocean travel, enabling long-distance migrations. Reproduction involves females returning to natal beaches to lay multiple clutches; incubation temperature influences the sex of hatchlings (temperature-dependent sex determination). Maturity is reached after several years, with lifespans spanning multiple decades.

Taxonomy and conservation: Dermochelyidae has a fossil record with several extinct genera; the modern leatherback is the sole surviving member. The IUCN lists Dermochelys coriacea as Vulnerable, with threats including bycatch, plastic pollution, and habitat loss. International and national protections exist, reflecting the species’ wide but imperiled distribution.