What do sea turtles eat?

Sea turtles have diverse diets depending on their species and life stage. The following are some common food sources for sea turtles:

Jellyfish: Several sea turtle species, such as the leatherback turtle, primarily feed on jellyfish. They have adaptations that allow them to consume and digest these gelatinous organisms.

Seagrass: Green sea turtles are herbivorous and feed predominantly on seagrass and algae. They use their strong jaws to graze on underwater meadows.

Algae: Some sea turtles, including the hawksbill turtle, have a diet that consists mainly of algae. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by consuming algae that can overgrow and harm the reef ecosystem.

Sponges: Loggerhead turtles are known to feed on sponges. They have specialized jaws that help them crush and consume these relatively immobile prey.

Crustaceans: Various sea turtle species feed on crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimp. This includes the Kemp's ridley turtle, the smallest and most endangered sea turtle species.

Small Fish: Young sea turtles, especially when they are in the pelagic stage, may consume small fish and fish eggs as part of their diet.

It's important to note that sea turtles are generally opportunistic feeders, and their specific diet can vary based on the availability of food in their habitat.