The status of marine turtle conservation in Vietnam

Abstract

Among five species of marine turtles in Vietnam, Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata Linnaeus) and Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivaces Eschscholtz) are most abundant and widely distributed throughout the Vietnamese coastal waters and islands. Meanwhile, Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas L.), Loggerhead (Caretta caretta Linnaeus) and Leatherback (Dermochelys coriaceca Vandelli) are almost observed only in central and southern coastal waters, the last two species are very rare. These turtles are considered as important marine resources with high economic value in Vietnam. Their meats and eggs are utilized for food and their carapaces for ornaments by coastal communities. Thus, it is necessary to prompt the Government to develop an action plan for conserving marine turtles in Vietnamese waters.