Eretmochelys imbricata—the hawksbill sea turtle—is recognised by its sharp, hawk‑like beak andoverlapping (imbricated) carapace scutes. On coral reefs it is an important spongivore that helps shape benthic communities.
Ecology & Biology
Diet: primarily sponges; also anemones, tunicates, algae and small invertebrates. The narrow beak extracts prey from reef crevices.
Life history: oceanic post‑hatchling drift followed by neritic residency; late maturity (~20–35 years).
Reproduction: females nest on sandy beaches at night; temperature‑dependent sex determination (warmer nests produce more females).
Identification
Carapace heart‑shaped to oval with a serrated posterior edge; scutes overlap like shingles. Small, pointed head with a hooked upper jaw; forelimbs are paddle‑like for swimming.
Size & Longevity
Length: adult carapace length typically 60–95 cm.
Weight: usually 40–70 kg, larger individuals occur.
Life: estimated 30–50+ years.
Range & Habitat
Circumtropical in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific; prefers coral and rocky reefs and algal/seagrass habitats, mostly in shallow waters (<30 m).
Conservation & Threats
Threats: trade in tortoiseshell, illegal take/egg harvest, fisheries bycatch (longlines/gillnets), coastal development and light pollution, reef degradation and marine debris.
Measures: habitat protection, ban on tortoiseshell products, gear/operation changes (circle hooks, TEDs/BRDs where relevant), beach lighting management and debris clean‑ups; protected under international conventions.
IUCN: Critically Endangered (CR) (subject to latest assessment).
