Why is it in the news?
Conservation of eggs at Hope Island in Andhra Pradesh.
Strengthens marine biodiversity protection efforts.
Category: Environment
Important Points:
● Smallest sea turtle species
● Found in Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans
● Known for mass nesting (arribada)
● Major nesting sites in Odisha coast
● Omnivorous diet (jellyfish, algae, crustaceans)
● Protected under Schedule I of Wildlife Act
● Listed as Vulnerable on IUCN Red List
● Included in CITES Appendix I
● Conservation via Operation Olivia
● Threats include bycatch and illegal poaching