Experts gather to talk turtle. Despite endangered species pact, sea turtles are threatened by world trade in meat, skins, and shells
Holden, C.
Science, USA 206(4425): 1383-1384
1979
Document Number: 254553
Paper is a short general note on a 5-day international conference held at the [USA] State Department in November [1979]. Of the 7 species of sea turtle, 6 are endangered and are listed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Papers presented included some on nutrition, management and farming of sea turtles. There is one commercial farm producing green turtles [Chelonia mydas]; it is not profitable yet. Farming might decrease illicit use of turtle meat and be used for study for management of wild stocks or to restock the wild; it would encourage the exploitation of endangered species by developing a taste for turtle products, which are luxury items. A conservation strategy was presented, covering from basic biological research to a survey of conservation laws. While sea turtles remain endangered, they should not be exploited. A standing committee will meet in 1981 in association with the 3rd CITES conference.