There were once millions of sea turtles world wide, But because of several reasons such as hunting, fishing, marine debris and coastal development, today there are fewer than 200,000 mature females remaining. The green sea turtle is listed as a threatened species and people need to get involved to make sure this beautiful species does not also become extinct.

The green sea turtle is one of the largest of sea turtles. Adults can weigh an average of 400 pounds and are often found living near coral reefs and rocky shorelines. Adult sea turtles are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of algae and sea grasses. Juvenile turtles are carnivorous eating things like jellyfish, snails, sponges and seaweed.

The life span of a sea turtle is unknown but Hawaiian sea turtles grow very slowly and may take ten

But one of the most serious threats to the Hawaiian green sea turtle is the presence of a disease called fibropapilloma. This disease causes the growth of large tumors primarily on the soft tissues of the turtles. The tumors often spread to many parts of the body. Problems occur when they cover the eyes of the turtle making it difficult to see or grow in the mouth or throat inhibiting feeding. Once turtles are stricken with the disease, they do not appear to recover. The cause of this disease is unknown, but scientists suspect a virus, parasite, or the effects of marine pollution may be involved.

There are many programs dedicated to help restore Hawaii's Sea Turtle population and conservation is being promoted through public education. Sea turtles in Hawaii are also protected under state law and under the federal Endangered Species Act. These laws prohibit harming, killing, or keeping sea turtles in captivity. But more things can still be done to save the population of sea turtles so they can go on to survive and multiply. The average person can help by disposing of garbage properly; take cans, bottles used motor oil and other items to recycling centers. Properly dispose of plastic bags. Get involved in beach clean up days. Do not release balloons into the air for parties or other events. But most importantly, you can help turtle researchers by reporting nesting, injured, or dead sea turtles to the Hawaii

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Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)