Sea Turtles | Marine Biology
Sea turtles are large, air-breathing reptiles that inhabit tropical and subtropical seas throughout the world. These reptiles, that are the oldest reptile species in the world, are fascinating in their own way. There are 360 turtle species that exist, out of which 187 are threatened and from which about 127 are endangered or critically endangered. Often considered the most majestic of the turtle family, the sea turtle is a large, ocean-going reptile known for its gentle nature and long lifespan. Although numerous animals, from invertebrates to mammals, have evolved shells, none has an architecture like that of turtles. Sea turtles are reptiles remarkably suited to life in the sea. Their hydrodynamic shape, large size, and powerful front flippers allow them to dive to great depths and swim long distances. These front flippers are long, narrow, and winglike, while their hind flippers are shorter. Although sea turtles can remain submerged for hours at a time while resting or sleeping,