India, known for its vast coastline and diverse river systems, is home to several unique turtle species that play a key role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems. From deep-sea giants to freshwater dwellers, these turtles contribute to biodiversity conservation and ecological balance.
Below are seven important turtle species found across India — frequently cited in environmental studies and UPSC-prelims–relevant biodiversity topics.
Sea Turtle Species
1. Olive Ridley Turtle
- Small olive-green sea turtle, about 70 cm long.
- Famous for arribada (mass nesting) at Odisha’s Gahirmatha, Rushikulya, and Devi River Mouth.
- Threats: Plastic waste, fishing nets, and coastal development.
- Protected under Schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
2. Green Sea Turtle
- Named for its greenish body fat, not shell.
- Found along the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Gujarat coast.
- Important for maintaining seagrass beds.
- Threatened by egg poaching and habitat loss.
3. Hawksbill Turtle
- Identified by pointed beak and patterned shell.
- Found in Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep islands.
- Contributes to coral reef health by feeding on sponges.
- Critically Endangered (IUCN) due to shell trade and climate impacts.
4. Leatherback Turtle
- World’s largest sea turtle, growing up to 2.5 meters, 700+ kg.
- Leathery, ridged shell helps deep-sea diving (up to 1,000 m).
- Found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Critically endangered due to marine debris and nesting beach loss.
Freshwater Turtle Species
5. Indian Flapshell Turtle
- Found in rivers, wetlands, and ponds.
- Possesses flaps of skin covering limbs.
- Can survive droughts by burrowing into mud.
- Not endangered but faces habitat shrinkage.
6. Indian Roofed Turtle
- Has a peaked shell resembling a roof.
- Found in Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra river systems.
- Males are more colorful (yellow and red markings).
- Threatened by illegal pet trade and polluted rivers.
7. Indian Tent Turtle
- Dome-shaped shell resembling a tent.
- Found in Ganga, Yamuna, and Chambal rivers.
- Protected within National Chambal Sanctuary.
- Targeted by pet trade but shows strong adaptability.
Conservation Insight
All turtle species in India are legally protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I).
They face major threats from marine pollution, habitat destruction, and illegal trade.
Turtle conservation is crucial to maintaining marine and freshwater biodiversity.
Source: The Indian Express