10 Questions
Which species of sea turtle is the largest?
Leatherback
Sea turtles have existed since the time of the _________.
Dinosaurs
How many eggs can a sea turtle lay at a time?
150
What is the name of the prehistoric ancestor of the leatherback sea turtle?
Desmatochelys padillai
What percentage of sea turtle hatchlings survive to adulthood?
0.1%
Sea turtles are present in all but Earth's coldest oceans.
True
The earliest known marine turtle lived about 120 million years ago.
True
The leatherback sea turtle is larger than its prehistoric ancestor, the padillai.
True
Once a female sea turtle lays her eggs, she stays with them until they hatch.
False
Less than 0.1% of sea turtle hatchlings survive to adulthood.
True
Study Notes
Sea Turtles: Ancient Mariners
- Sea turtles are present in all but the coldest oceans and are well-adapted to a life on the move.
- They have existed since the time of the dinosaurs, with the earliest known marine turtle, Desmatochelys padillai, living around 120 million years ago.
Characteristics and Features
- Desmatochelys padillai was six feet long and had a carapace (top shell) and paddle-like limbs, characteristic features of modern sea turtles.
Species and Size
- There are seven species of sea turtles today.
- The largest species is the leatherback, which can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to 2,000 pounds.
- The leatherback is larger than its prehistoric ancestor, the padillai.
Reproduction and Survival
- Female sea turtles can lay over 150 eggs at a time, called a clutch.
- The large egg deposits help ensure the survival of hatchlings.
- Female sea turtles return to the sea after laying eggs, leaving hatchlings to fend for themselves.
- Fewer than 0.1% of hatchlings survive to adulthood.
Test your knowledge about sea turtles with this quiz! Learn fascinating facts about these ancient mariners, their adaptations, and their long history on Earth. Dive into the world of sea turtles and discover how they have survived for millions of years.
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