Üsküdar University supports Caretta carettas' struggle for life!

Studies carried out in the Fethiye-Göcek Special Environmental Protection Area to protect sea turtles, which are among Turkey's important biodiversity elements and flagship species, continue in 2026. In the project where Asst. Prof. Doğukan Mutlu from the Molecular Biology and Genetics Department is also part of the scientific team, Caretta caretta nests are individually identified and protected, and intensive work is carried out to ensure hatchlings reach the sea safely. Dr. Mutlu stated that it is pleasing that no decrease has been observed in the number of nests, adding, 'This situation shows that conservation efforts are bearing fruit in the long term and that sea turtles continue to use these beaches.'

Fethiye beaches, one of Turkey's most valuable natural habitats on the Mediterranean coasts, annually host the nesting struggle of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Studies carried out by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks of the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change to protect sea turtles and monitor their populations are also continuing in 2026.

Asst. Prof. Doğukan Mutlu from Üsküdar University's Molecular Biology and Genetics Department is also part of the scientific team of the project led by Dr. Doğan Sözbilen from Pamukkale University. In the field studies, which are also supported by volunteer students from Üsküdar University, Caretta caretta nests in the Fethiye-Göcek Special Environmental Protection Area are monitored, nesting areas are protected, and necessary measures are taken to ensure hatchlings reach the sea safely.

No decrease in nest numbers is pleasing

Asst. Prof. Doğukan Mutlu from Üsküdar University's Molecular Biology and Genetics Department stated that both biological and genetic studies continue uninterrupted on the nesting beaches, and said: 

"According to the data we obtained, it is quite pleasing that there has been no decrease in Caretta caretta nest numbers. This situation shows that conservation efforts are bearing fruit in the long term and that sea turtles continue to use these beaches."

Conservation efforts and the human factor

Within the scope of the ongoing conservation activities, nests are identified, caged, and hatchlings are ensured to reach the sea safely. However, the research team also draws attention to the intense human pressure on the beaches. Uncontrolled vehicle entries to the nesting beach, especially in the Akgöl region of Karaot beach, pose a serious risk to sensitive nesting areas.

Sustainable tourism and the future of the beach

The sustainability of tourism fundamentally depends on how well the natural environment it relies on is protected. Fethiye beaches are of great importance for both tourism and endangered sea turtles. While the beaches host holidaymakers during the day, basic rules must be observed at night for the safety of sea turtles. Flashlights, mobile phone lights, or fires lit after dark can cause hatchlings to lose their way, while loud sounds and noise can lead adult turtles to return to the sea without laying eggs. Not interfering with the protective cages placed on the beach also plays a critical role in the health of the hatchlings. Researchers and volunteers in the field continue their awareness-raising efforts to create sustainable tourism awareness for humans and nature to live in harmony.