Home / Environment / Experts Probe Low Hatch Rate of Olive Ridley Turtles
Experts Probe Low Hatch Rate of Olive Ridley Turtles
16 Feb
Summary
- Only 72 out of 145 olive ridley eggs hatched, a low survival rate.
- Cooler weather and unfertilized eggs cited as potential causes.
- Marine biologists and veterinarians assessed the protected nest.
At Agonda beach, a protected nest of olive ridley turtles yielded fewer hatchlings than expected, with only 72 emerging from 145 eggs. This low hatching rate prompted an urgent investigation by local wildlife officials.
Marine biologist Nester Brian Fernandes was consulted due to the nest not hatching even after 60 days, exceeding the typical 50-day incubation period. Active hatching began on the 60th day, with initial observations showing two hatchlings, followed by approximately 68 later that evening and four more the next day.
Fernandes attributed the low emergence to several factors, including cooler climatic conditions potentially delaying development and the biological unlikelihood of all eggs being fertilized. He also noted that larger clutches often exhibit proportionally lower emergence rates. The situation underscores the importance of protecting nests from threats and continuing monitoring efforts.
Veterinary professionals Tanuj Mark and Dr. Manohar Nagre from ReefWatch also assessed the nest to determine if any medical intervention was necessary. The assessment involved several local rescuers and forest officials.
