Lepidochelys

Lepidochelys is a genus of sea turtles in the family Cheloniidae. It comprises two living species, Lepidochelys olivacea (olive ridley) and Lepidochelys kempii (Kemp’s ridley). The genus is distributed across tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. The olive ridley has a broad distribution in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, while Kemp’s ridley is largely found in the Gulf of Mexico and western Atlantic, with a smaller Pacific presence.

Physically, Lepidochelys species are small to medium-sized sea turtles. They share a relatively compact carapace, and olive ridleys tend to have smoother, more oval shells, whereas Kemp’s ridley is among the smallest of living sea turtles. Their diets are omnivorous or carnivorous, including jellyfish, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.

Reproduction occurs on sandy beaches where females migrate to nest and lay eggs, often in multiple clutches per season. Olive ridleys are notable for large, synchronized nesting events called arribadas on some beaches, while Kemp’s ridley nesting has historically concentrated at certain sites such as Rancho Nuevo, Mexico. Conservation efforts have focused on protecting nesting beaches and reducing bycatch, with various programs contributing to population recovery in some areas.

Conservation and threats: Lepidochelys species face ongoing pressures from bycatch in fisheries, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Kemp’s ridley experienced a dramatic mid‑20th‑century decline but has benefited from targeted protection and recovery programs. Ongoing monitoring, habitat protection, and sustainable fisheries management remain essential for the long‑term survival of Lepidochelys.