Sea turtle resurgence

Re: Sea turtles defy fears of a sixth mass extinction ( published online), Sept. 21

Although it is true that in recent years the global population of turtles is increasing, it is a stretch to say that they are defying mass extinction. Turtles can inhabit both land and water, making their population susceptible to many factors. In the past, such fishing practices as bottom trawling have led to the accidental capture of turtles and the destruction of their habitat. This issue is ongoing but to a lesser extent now. The resurgence in turtle population can be seen to be partially due to new laws made to conserve the habitats. This is a step in the right direction but not enough to ensure the survival of the turtle populations.

Climate change is the biggest factor in turtle decline. Melting ice caps submerge turtle eggs at their nesting sites, making them less likely to hatch. Furthermore, turtle hatchling gender is dependent on the temperature of the eggs. Due to climate change the increase in temperature results in more females being born and a decrease in genetic diversity. Lack of diversity makes the species less equipped to withstand changing environments or future epidemics.

The revival of the turtle population requires not only fishermen to comply with the new regulations but society as a whole to reduce their carbon footprint to lessen the effect of climate change on the turtles. Dave Verzonilla, Toronto