357 / 2024-09-14 23:32:39

Overview of the current status, challenges and opportunities of sea turtle research and conservation in China – Finding the key to push forward conservation actions across disciplines and boundaries

Sea turtle,research,collaboration,conservation,education,China,local knowledge,sustainability

Sea turtles are globally endangered species that migrate in long distances at certain life stages. Five sea turtle species, green turtle (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) and leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), are recorded in the China Region. Green turtle is the most common species with occurrence of nesting populations and foraging aggregations. Loggerhead turtle is also found foraging in the Chinese Seas, including the East China Sea, and neighboring area.

Sea turtles have been facing imminent threats in different life stages, from their nesting sites on land to foraging grounds and migratory corridors in the ocean. In light of such borderless migration and threats faced throughout the life stages, devoted and collaborative conservation efforts are needed to restore the dwindling sea turtle populations. All sea turtle species are listed as the Category I of the national protected animals in China. Together with the Government, the China Sea Turtle Conservation Alliance, established in 2018, has formulated a 15-year Sea Turtle Conservation Action Plan. By building on our scientific knowledge of the population demography, habitat use and connectivity, and ecology of sea turtles, coupled with the perspectives of current conservation effort and public education, this presentation aims to identify essential information gaps, propose potential research opportunities, and explore collaboration among stakeholders. In synergy with our respect of the socio-cultural need, integration of local and traditional knowledge, and resources across disciplines, this presentation also aspires to facilitate cross-sectoral dialogue and reinforce commitment on finding flexible means to overcome challenges and to develop conservation strategies rooted with the community for a sustainable future.