Sea turtles are among the oldest creatures on earth but they are now threatened by ever-increasing pressures from a staggering array of sources as human populations grow, coastal habitats are developed, and marine habitats are degraded.
Florida beaches host the largest population of nesting loggerheads in the world, and, of the seven species of sea turtles, five species nest on Florida beaches and are found in Florida waters. Thus, Florida citizens have both the privilege and the duty to be responsible stewards for these endangered species. The University of Florida, through the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research, is leading efforts to reverse the decline of sea turtles in Florida by increasing public awareness, increasing survivorship, and restoring marine habitat and beach nesting areas.
News & Highlights
Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research – seeking innovative solutions for sea turtle conservation through research and education
Conserving sea turtles has far-reaching effects on the health of marine ecosystems because sea turtles and other large animals maintain diversity and stability in our oceans. The recent decline of coastal marine ecosystems are largely a result of over-exploitation by humans of large carnivores and herbivores – including sea turtles…
Increasing nesting habitat for Florida sea turtles
One of the great threats to sea turtles nesting in Florida is the substantial decline in quantity and quality of nesting beaches along Florida coastlines as a result of coastal development, destructive storms, and rising sea level. In addition, sea turtle foraging habitats in Florida waters are also degraded by…
Green turtles and seagrasses
A green turtle grazing in a seagrass meadow, Little Cayman Island. Photo: A. Gulick Green turtles consume seagrasses as a major part of their diet across much of their global range. As green turtle populations begin to recover and increase in abundance, it is critical to understand how seagrass meadows…
How Can I Help?
The Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research (ACCSTR) at the University of Florida was established as a Center of Excellence in 1986 in recognition of the outstanding achievements and pioneering research of the late Archie Carr and the University of Florida’s international reputation in the field of sea turtle research.
Invest in the Center Visit the Center’s WebsiteContact
Jessica Long
Senior Director of Advancement
Sea Turtle Hospital at UF Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience
904-201-8401 office
904-315-2758 cell