Sea turtle diets vary depending on their species. Green turtles feed on seagrasses, leatherbacks consume jellyfish and hawksbills hunt sponges.
Green sea turtles contribute to the health of coral reefs by eating algae that overgrows and destroys coral. Leatherbacks also prey on jellyfish and other soft-bodied invertebrates.
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Seafood
Sea turtles eat a wide range of fish, crustaceans, mollusks and algae for food. Their jaws are powerful; they can tear off hard-shelled prey like conchs, whelks or horseshoe crabs with ease.
They consume a vast array of marine vegetation, such as crinkle grass, api-api, salt-water cordgrass and green seaweed (Gayralia). Plastics such as bags, nets and trash provide another important source of nutrition for these turtles.
Turtles require a balanced and nutritious diet. They should be offered commercial turtle pellets, live foods, and vegetables on a regular basis. Additionally, they need additional sources of calcium – essential for strong shell development – such as crushed eggshells, oyster shells or cuttlebone.
Meat
Sea turtle meat is a traditional delicacy in some parts of the world, often eaten during special occasions such as weddings, Christmas, Easter and Mother’s Day.
Meat is an important source of protein for human health. Additionally, it contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin E, and B vitamins.
Meat and eggs, despite their high protein content, contain many contaminants which may be toxic to humans such as bacteria, parasites, and biotoxins. These substances have the potential to cause diarrhea, vomiting, and severe dehydration if consumed in large amounts.
Vegetables
Turtles need a varied diet in addition to protein. A mixture of fresh fruits, vegetables and meat is ideal.
Vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, which is necessary for a healthy digestive tract. A variety of leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, spinach and kale is particularly beneficial.
Fruits are an ideal way to provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals. Baby sea turtles in particular need of this nutrient-rich food, as their needs are lower than adults’.
Nuts are another nutritious choice, though it’s important to note that they aren’t technically fruits since their seeds are indehiscent (meaning they won’t open when ripe). Instead, nuts are botanically the seeds of drupes – plants with flesh around a single shell with the seed inside.
Fruits
Fruits can be a treat for turtles, but should only be given in moderation. Generally speaking, only 10-20% of their diet should consist of fruits with the remaining 80% made up by green and leafy vegetables.
Flowers in moderation can also be fed: carnations, lilies, roses, pansies, dandelions, geraniums and hibiscus all make for safe feeding options.
Watermellons are another beneficial food choice for turtles. They contain nutrients like vitamin C, B-complex, and potassium which help strengthen their immunity.
Aside from fruits and vegetables, nuts can also be offered to your turtle as a treat. Peanuts are an excellent source of protein and phosphorus; however, only give small amounts at a time and no more than twice a week.
Seaweed
Seaweed is an aquatic plant-like algae that lives in the ocean. It provides crucial nutrition to many marine animals and plants such as corals and sponges.
Seaweeds can also grow on rocks and sand; these are known as kelps.
Seaweeds such as this one are packed with protein, iron, zinc and iodine. Furthermore, they provide dietary fiber and calcium.
Seaweeds rely on photosynthesis for their nutrients. This process uses sunlight to transform water into carbohydrates like glucose and oxygen, essential building blocks of life.
