The leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The leatherback sea turtle is the largest living species of turtle, capable of reaching lengths of up to two metres, and weights of up to 900kg [7]. It is also the deepest diving species of sea turtle, reaching depths of more than 1000 metres[7]. It is the only living species of its family.
A unique feature that this turtle has compared to other marine turtles, is its ability to regulate its body temperature to be several degrees higher than its environment, similar to that of endothermy[13]. This has allowed the leatherback turtle to have a geographic distribution greater than any reptile, ranging from the Arctic Circle to New Zealand[13]. Like other species of turtles, it displays temperature-sex determination, where the sex ratio of an egg clutch is determined by the temperature experienced during the middle third of embryonic development[5]. Higher temperatures would produce a larger proportion of female offspring[5]. It is suggested that they possess natal homing capabilities, allowing them to navigate their way back to their natal beaches to breed[2]. Leatherback turtles feed strictly on jellyfish, and have backward protruding spikes in their mouth and oesophagus to aid in them in capturing and consuming prey[6]. This specialised diet has also resulted in the accidental consumption of plastic bags, which bear a resemblance to their jellyfish prey[9]. |
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Testudines Family: Dermochelyidae Genus: Dermochelys Species: D. coriacea |