Olive Ridley Turtle Population in India: Trends and Challenges

Olive Ridley Turtle Population in India: Trends and Challenges

Sub : Env

Sec :Species in news

Context:

• A 16-year-long assessment (2008-2024) indicates that the Olive Ridley turtle population in India is “steady or growing.”
• Rising sand temperatures due to climate change are causing a higher proportion of female hatchlings, raising concerns about long-term population viability.

Study and Findings

• Conducted by Dakshin Foundation in collaboration with Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, and multiple State Forest Departments.
• Provides insights into population trends, conservation challenges, and environmental impacts on India’s mainland and island coasts.
• Along with Olive Ridley turtles, the study includes:
  • Leatherback turtles of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • Green turtles of the Lakshadweep Islands.

Importance of Long-Term Monitoring

• Sea turtles are long-lived, late-maturing, and highly migratory species.
• Population changes occur over decades, making long-term monitoring crucial.

Arribada: Mass Nesting Phenomenon

• Arribada refers to the simultaneous mass nesting of tens or hundreds of thousands of female turtles.
• Gahirmatha and Rushikulya (Odisha) are among the world’s largest nesting grounds, alongside Mexico and Costa Rica.
• In February 2024, Rushikulya witnessed one of the largest arribadas, with 400,000 to 500,000 turtles nesting within days.

Conservation and Concerns

• The Olive Ridley population appears stable or increasing, but challenges remain.
• Arribada does not occur every year, despite evidence of a large number of turtles offshore.
• Coastal and oceanic habitat threats necessitate continuous monitoring and conservation efforts.

Conclusion

• While the current population trend is positive, the impact of climate change on sex ratios and habitat threatspose long-term risks.
• Sustained conservation efforts and monitoring are essential for maintaining a healthy turtle population.