The Ministry of Fisheries has continued its efforts to protect endangered marine species, with its Sea Turtle Monitoring Team carrying out fieldwork on Makogai Island.
In a statement, the Ministry said the team, from its Research Division, travelled to Makogai yesterday and conducted comprehensive beach patrols at Makodraga, Yaroi and Waimoro.
“The purpose of these patrols was to monitor and gather data on sea turtle activity, nesting and habitat conditions in these key areas,” the Ministry said.
The work focused on tagging and studying green sea turtles at their foraging sites as part of long-term conservation and monitoring efforts. Between 5am and 8am, the team successfully tagged two female green turtles.
“The first turtle had a carapace width of 47.2 centimetres and a carapace length of 50 centimetres and was assigned Tag Number R26996,” the Ministry said.
“The second turtle measured 65 centimetres in carapace length and 59 centimetres in width and was assigned Tag Number R26995.”
The Ministry said the data collected from tagging helps scientists track turtle movements, growth and survival rates over time, which is critical for shaping effective conservation strategies.
“Their combined efforts are crucial for gathering vital data that informs conservation planning and supports the protection of these endangered marine species,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry of Fisheries reiterated its commitment to marine conservation and urged the public to support efforts to protect sea turtles and their habitats, noting that community awareness and cooperation remain key to safeguarding Fiji’s marine biodiversity.
