Leatherback turtles in the Atlantic Ocean
This description focuses on the leatherback turtles that inhabit the Atlantic Ocean. It will discuss the unique characteristics of these turtles, their habitats, and the threats they face. It will also explore the conservation efforts being made to protect these majestic creatures. Leatherback turtles are the largest of all sea turtles
The leatherback sea turtle, sometimes called the lute turtle, leathery turtle or simply the luth, is a large species of sea turtle. The largest of all living turtles and the heaviest non-crocodilian reptile, it reaches lengths of up to 2.7 metres and weights of 500 kilograms (1,100 lb). It is the only living species in the genus Dermochelys and family Dermochelyidae. It can easily be differentiated from other modern sea turtles by its lack of a bony shell; instead, its carapace is covered by oily flesh and flexible, leather-like skin, for which it is named. Leatherback turtles have a global range, although there are multiple distinct subpopulations. The species as a whole is considered vulnerable, and some of its subpopulations are critically endangered.