Grant: 25-007R
Project Title: Do post-hatchling sea turtles show evidence of plasticosis?
Project Manager: Justin Perrault
Organization: Loggerhead Marinelife Center (Non-Profit Organization)
Grant Amount: $5,722.50
Completion Date:
Summary: "Plasticosis" is a newly recognized pathological condition recently described in seabirds that are heavily impacted by plastic pollution. Plasticosis is characterized by significant plastic-related scar formation throughout the gastrointestinal tract, eventually leading to excessive change and loss of tissue structure. The phenomenon of plasticosis in seabirds raises concerns for other species of wildlife, as plastic ingestion is ubiquitous across taxa. All five species of marine turtles in Florida are classified as either vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered, and were among the first species ever recorded to ingest plastic debris. Globally, it is estimated that ~52% of sea turtles have ingested plastic, and up to 100% of them surveyed in some regions have evidence of plastic ingestion. In sea turtles, plastic consumption is most frequently observed in post-hatchling and juvenile life-stage classes during which these animals undergo significant growth and development. The objective of this study is to investigate the presence or absence of plasticosis in post-hatchling sea turtles that have ingested plastic particles utilizing histopathology. It is critical to gain a better understanding of plasticosis and possible implications for sea turtles stranding in Florida. This can help guide management strategies for sea turtle conservation in this geographical location, as well as provide an inherent opportunity for education and outreach focusing on plastic pollution in sea turtles, reducing plastic usage, and the One Health concept.
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