Havssköldpadda

Havssköldpadda is the Swedish word for sea turtle. Sea turtles are marine reptiles belonging to the order Testudines. They are found in oceans around the world, inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters. There are seven extant species of sea turtles: the green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle, Kemp's ridley sea turtle, olive ridley sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, flatback sea turtle, and leatherback sea turtle.

These ancient creatures are characterized by their protective shell, which is fused to their ribs and backbone. Their limbs are adapted into flippers, making them efficient swimmers. Sea turtles are long-lived and undertake extensive migrations between feeding grounds and nesting beaches. Most species are omnivorous or herbivorous, feeding on a variety of marine life and vegetation.

Sea turtles play a vital role in marine ecosystems. For example, green sea turtles graze on seagrass beds, which helps to maintain the health of these important habitats. Hawksbill sea turtles feed on sponges, which can help to prevent sponges from overgrowing coral reefs.

Unfortunately, all species of sea turtles are listed as endangered or critically endangered due to various threats. These include habitat loss, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect sea turtles and their habitats.