It does not appear to be the result of a mass spawning, reports the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research
The dead turtles and fish found on the beaches of Pervolia in Larnaca it does not appear to be the result of a “massive spat,” the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research said in a statement.
Commenting on recent publications, dated August 29, TATHE states that the phenomenon does not concern the simultaneous stranding of many individuals of marine fauna species dead or alive either on the beach or in the sea in a specific time period and area. Specifically, based on the reports, it is reported that two dead turtles and one or two fish have been found, which may be independent incidents that happened in the same area due to the prevailing sea currents and waves.
It is added that “from the available photographic material in the relevant publications, which shows a green turtle, it appears that it was dead in the sea for a few days before it was carried by the currents to the beach in question, where it was found”.
The existing evidence alone cannot indicate that the cause of death came from an explosion or shock wave, TATHE notes, adding that after its investigation, no military exercises with live fire/explosions have been carried out in the area in recent months.
It also clarifies that the causes of death of a sea turtle are not always and exclusively due to anthropogenic activities or malicious actions, but may be due to natural causes, such as diseases, parasites, predators, etc. found in the marine natural environment. It is noted that dead marine animals can also show tympanism, i.e. inflate. In order to ascertain the causes of death of a sea turtle, or in general a marine animal, a necropsy is required.
In addition, according to TATHE, in recent years sea turtles in Cyprus have shown an increase in population them, which has led to a corresponding increase in their recorded deaths, with the consequent identification of more dead people in the coastal areas of Cyprus.
TATHE assures, in its announcement, that it will continue its efforts for the ensuring the protection not only of the specific species, but also of all marine protected species in general.
In this context it is mentioned that the Research Center for Marine Aquaculture of Cyprus (EKTHYK) of TATHE, where the Center for the Treatment of Injured and of sick sea turtles, continues his work. The green turtle “Emilia” has been hospitalized since August 3rd, which is responding very well to her treatment and is expected to be ready for release into its natural environment soon.
