Conservation and Ecology of Marine Reptiles

MARE 494Dr. Turner

Summer 2007

LocomotionSea turtles depart functionally & morphologically from other turtles

Locomotion & locomotor adaptations most unique characters

Large size, hypertrophied phalanges, distinctive locomotion patterns

LocomotionDue to rigid carapace – all propulsion from limbs

Terrestrial & Freshwater turtles alternate limb movements

Marine – use both forelimbs simultaneously

Locomotion

Locomotion

Terrestrial LocomotionMost hatchlings crawl by synchronous movement of diagonally opposite limbs

As increase in mass – locomotion becomes taxonomically dichotomous

Terrestrial LocomotionMost hatchlings crawl by synchronous movement of diagonally opposite limbs

Cheloniid Pattern

Terrestrial LocomotionMost hatchlings crawl by synchronous movement of diagonally opposite limbs

DermochelidPattern

Terrestrial LocomotionAs increase in mass – locomotion becomes taxonomically dichotomous

Loggerhead, hawksbill, & Ridleys retain Cheloniid pattern

Green/black & flatback switch to Dermochelid pattern

Aquatic LocomotionAlready reviewed marine turtle anatomical adaptations

Use life-based mechanisms for producing thrust

Flippers serve as wings & paddles

Aquatic AdaptationsModification of pectoral appendage from typical foot to modified flipper

Popular MechanicsUse forelimbs to provide thrust – synchronous flipper sweeps causes body to rock through + & - angles of attack

Lift-based mechanisms – apparatus act like wings to generate lift

Drag-based locomotion - generate thrust by rowing or paddling

Popular MechanicsComparison of FW & Marine

Hyper-Hypo“I'm hypoglycemic and hyperactive. I'm a hyper hypo. That's why I wear a helmet.” – Phillip the hyper-hypo

Long-distance migrations accomplished during a hyperactive swimming frenzy & post-frenzy period

Large portion anaerobic – unable to hold head at surface while swimming in rough conditions

Frenzy!