Study Shows Sea Turtles Return to Egypt’s Seagrass Since Ancient Times

Along the eastern Mediterranean Sea, new research has unveiled an awe-inspiring revelation about its shelled inhabitants. As it turns out, green sea turtles have been returning to the same seagrass meadows off Egypt's coast since the time of the pharaohs!

Evolving alongside dinosaurs, these marine reptiles exhibit anti-microbial properties that have sustained them for over 3,000 years. Led by Willemien de Kock, a historical ecologist at the Netherlands’ Groningen University, the study used satellite tracking data from Exeter University to keep track of the pilgrimage of generations of green sea turtles.

While volunteers along the eastern Mediterranean Sea coasts work tirelessly to protect turtle nests, the study highlights the urgent need to safeguard the seagrass meadows. Threatened by modern challenges like pollution and invasive species, these underwater gardens play a critical role in supporting diverse marine life. The timeless return of ancient sea turtles calls for concerted conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these majestic creatures and the delicate ecosystems they call home.