Sea turtle DNA research to be focus of Ocean Isle Beach lecture
OCEAN ISLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Scientists are using sea turtle DNA to uncover family connections, nesting patterns and breeding information that could help guide conservation efforts.
Deb Allen, coordinator of the Ocean Isle Beach Sea Turtle Protection Organization, will discuss the research during the Museum of Coastal Carolina’s Sandbar Lecture Series on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 5:30 p.m.
DNA analysis can help scientists identify individual female sea turtles, determine where they were born and track where they return to nest. Researchers can use that information to study nesting patterns, genetic diversity and the health of sea turtle populations.
New research is also providing information about male sea turtles, which are rarely seen on nesting beaches.
According to Allen, researchers are using DNA from hatchlings to determine which males are successfully breeding, how many males are contributing to a population and how much genetic diversity is being passed to new generations.
Allen will share information from research being conducted by the University of Georgia in partnership with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
As part of sea turtle monitoring programs, including the one on Ocean Isle Beach, volunteers collect DNA samples from material found in hatchlings’ eggshells. The samples are then added to a research database.
The database can be used to identify genetically related sea turtles and track the number of genetically identified females nesting on Ocean Isle Beach.
Researchers hope the information will provide a better understanding of sea turtle populations and help inform efforts to protect nesting beaches and breeding populations.
The Sandbar Lecture Series features presentations about regional history, coastal ecosystems and wildlife. The lectures are presented by local subject matter experts.
The one-hour lecture is free with admission to the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for children ages 3 to 12.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day.
