Why Do Sea Turtles Matter to Florida’s Ecosystem?

Green Sea Turtle

For more than 100 million years, sea turtles have journeyed across the world’s oceans—shaping ecosystems, maintaining seagrass beds, and sustaining coral reefs. These ancient mariners are an essential part of the ocean’s balance.

But today, all seven species of sea turtles are listed as Threatened, Endangered, or Critically Endangered. Unlike the natural challenges they’ve weathered for millennia, today’s dangers are overwhelmingly human caused.

A Life Cycle Built on Perseverance

Sea turtles are known for their remarkably long lifespans—many living to be 100 years or more. Yet, it can take 25 to 30 years before a turtle reaches sexual maturity and can reproduce. That means decades of surviving predators, storms, and shifting seas before nesting even begins.

Under natural conditions, only one in 1,000 hatchlings survives to adulthood. Now, with modern threats like plastic pollution, rising sea levels, boat strikes, commercial fishing bycatch, and coastal development, their survival rate is estimated to be as low as 1 in 7,000 to 10,000.

The Laws That Protect Them

Sea turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as well as Florida’s Marine Turtle Protection Act (Chapter 370) enacted in 1997. These laws protect all life stages—from eggs and nests to hatchlings and adults. Violations can result in fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment for up to one year.

Why It Matters

Every sea turtle plays a role in ocean health. By keeping seagrass trimmed and controlling jellyfish populations, they help maintain the biodiversity that countless other species depend on—including humans. When sea turtles thrive, the entire marine ecosystem thrives.

How You Can Help

Sea Turtle Oversight Protection (S.T.O.P.) works tirelessly to protect Florida’s nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings from human-related threats. Our volunteers monitor beaches, rescue disoriented hatchlings, and educate the public about responsible coastal living.

Join us in ensuring sea turtles continue their journey for generations to come. Together, we can make sure these ancient travelers never fade from our oceans.