Dr. Doğukan Mutlu from Üsküdar University and Molecular Biology and Genetics Department students Ender Ünver and Yasin Şalcı are actively involved in sea turtle conservation efforts carried out in Anamur.
Academicians and students from Üsküdar University are also actively taking part in the monitoring and conservation efforts carried out through inter-university cooperation on the beaches of Anamur district in Mersin, one of Turkey's and the Mediterranean's most important sea turtle nesting areas.
Within the scope of conservation efforts, the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), and freshwater turtle Nile softshell turtle (Trionyx triunguis) are being monitored using scientific methods.
Üsküdar University also takes part in the Ministry-supported project
While Dr. Doğan Sözbilen from Pamukkale University undertakes the execution of the project commissioned by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr. Doğukan Mutlu from Üsküdar University also takes part in the scientific team.
In addition to academic studies, on-site coordination is carried out by Adem Karataş, team leader of Hacettepe University Biology Department.
Emphasizing the importance of the work carried out on Anamur beaches, Karataş said, "Anamur is one of Turkey's most important sea turtle breeding grounds. The sharing of the beach with different creatures, the high number of nests, and the rapid development of the region indicate that we need to take very careful steps. The desire of more students to participate both encourages and gives us hope. Students are involved in both field and information activities, gaining new experience every day." he said.
Üsküdar University students gain experience in the field
One of the most important aspects of the project was providing undergraduate students with practical field experience.
Üsküdar University Molecular Biology and Genetics Department students Ender Ünver and Yasin Şalcı participate in the studies carried out on Anamur beaches with the first light of day, taking part in every stage of scientific research.
Students examining the nesting areas of protected species on site take active responsibility in the processes of identifying nests, placing protection cages, recording scientific data, and monitoring hatchling emergence.
Fieldwork is not limited to scientific research alone. Üsküdar University students also contribute to awareness-raising activities by communicating with the local community and tourists regarding the protection of sea turtles and the sustainability of natural life.
Scientific production and environmental awareness develop together
Thanks to this work carried out under the guidance of academicians, Üsküdar University students find the opportunity to turn their theoretical knowledge into practice, gaining significant field experience by participating in scientific research for the conservation of biodiversity.
With the support of the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the ongoing work in Anamur, carried out in cooperation with universities, continues to contribute to the protection of endangered species, the sustainability of the Mediterranean's biological richness, and the increase of environmental awareness.
