In XiaoLiuChiu Island, we conduct in-water research related
to population estimates and habitat use year-round.
Snorkelling and scuba diving transects are strategically
completed around the island’s coast. Turtles are photographed on both sides of
the head if possible. The shape and number of postocular scales has proven
very useful for identifying individual turtles for mark-recapture and
population estimation.
The location and behaviour of turtles is also recorded.
This way, we can determine which habitats are being utilized by sea turtles, and what for (resting, mating, foraging, etc). This information is critical to the management of aquatic habitats in XiaoLiuChiu, which is important for the island’s growing tourism industry and the subsequent boat traffic, seafood demand, construction and other concerns that are linked with such growth.
This way, we can determine which habitats are being utilized by sea turtles, and what for (resting, mating, foraging, etc). This information is critical to the management of aquatic habitats in XiaoLiuChiu, which is important for the island’s growing tourism industry and the subsequent boat traffic, seafood demand, construction and other concerns that are linked with such growth.
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