Marine turtles in the Central Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

The population of loggerheads in Lampedusa was examined during the nesting season in 1985. After successful nesting, it was observed that 101 eggs were laid, of which 67 hatched. This study reveals that Conigli Beach is the only remaining rookery of Caretta caretta in the central Mediterranean. At least five other nesting sites in Lampedusa were rendered unsuitable for nesting due to buildings and bathing by residents and tourists. Rattus rattus was found to be the main predator, besides man, at Conigli Beach. The capture of one specimen of Chelonia mydas near Lampione in summer 1983 is reported. In spring and summer 1986, loggerheads which were caught by fishermen were examined in Malta for injuries and pollution. Results showed that 19.5070 of the examined turtles had injuries on flippers and carapace, and over 20% suffered from physical or chemical pollution. The capture of two Eretmochelys imbricata - one specimen caught in summer 1984 near Lampedusa, and one in 1980 near Gozo - is reported. One leatherback was observed in Lampedusa, close to the shore of Conigli Beach, where it was probably trying to nest. Information on 12 Dermochelys coriacea, captured or sighted in Maltese waters between 1970 and 1980, is given. This study includes a historical review of former reports of turtles in the central Mediterranean. Former detections of Lepidochelys kempi and Chelonia mydas are also briefly described. The number of loggerheads killed annually is estimated at 150-300 in Lampedusa and 500-600 in Malta. It is therefore proposed that, if the last loggerhead rookery left in the central Mediterranean at Conigli Beach is to be preserved, this beach should be immediately closed to the public during the nesting period.