The albino sea turtle is a rare white turtle found in the ocean. It lacks the normal color pigment that most sea turtles have. If you are interested in learning more about Albino sea turtle, continue to read this article. We will share more details about their appearance and other interesting information you would love to know.
Size and Striking Appearance
Albino sea turtles match the size of non-albino turtles of the same species. For example, an adult albino green sea turtle grows over 3 feet long and can weigh up to 700 pounds. Their white shells, heads, and flippers however make them stand out vividly.
Unlike the earthy greens, olives, and browns of most sea turtles, the albino lacks all melanin pigment. This unique sea turtle color results in pale white skin, carapaces, and plastrons. This stark appearance shocks the viewer, a glaring opposite to the camouflage of their darker relatives. Their luminosity makes them easier to spot by predators though, a severe disadvantage in their marine home.
A More Perilous Lifespan
Due to the extra threats albino sea turtles face, their lifespan in the wild is sadly shorter than most non-albinos. From the moment the tiny white hatchlings leave their sandy nest, their bright shells draw the hungry eyes of birds, fish, and mammals.
As adults, their white skin continues to make them obvious targets, while also leaving them prone to sun damage, infections, and vision issues. While non-albino sea turtles live between 30 to 50 years on average, albino lifespans are estimated to be only 5 to 10 years in the wild. Their vulnerability as neonates and difficulty finding safe habitats as adults are a perilous combination.
Common Diets, Uncommon Risks
Albino sea turtles are carnivorous, herbivorous, or omnivorous, just as their non-albino species equivalents eat. A green albino turtle enjoys a diet of seagrasses and algae, while a hawksbill feasts on sponges, shrimp, and squid. Regardless of their meal preferences, all albino sea turtles face increased threats from their environments due to their lack of protective melanin.
Where olive-green turtles blend into beds of kelp, albino turtles stand out, targeted by predators. Without melanin they are also more prone to sunburn while basking which can impede their ability to thermoregulate and thrive.
Rarity Adds to Vulnerability
Scientists estimate only 1 in every 1,000 to 10,000 sea turtle hatchlings are born with albinism. This rare genetic variation removes all black or brown pigment from the turtle’s body, a mutation in the genes responsible for melanin production.
Their limited numbers and low genetic diversity make sustaining stable albino populations difficult. Albino sea turtles also face additional human pressures, from curious tourists disturbing fragile habitats to poachers seeking exotic animals. Their unusual visibility leaves them vulnerable to human interference and environmental turmoil.
Fun Albino Turtle Facts
- Albino sea turtles are very rare. Their lack of color is due to a gene mutation.
- Despite being albino, they can grow and behave like other sea turtles.
- Protecting albino turtles is tricky. Their white skin makes them easier for humans to spot and potentially poach.
Saving a Rare Beauty
Albino sea turtles showcase the wonderful diversity of ocean life. Protecting their homes and keeping their small populations safe is key so these unique turtles can continue to brighten our seas.