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Ember’s Journey Through the North Atlantic Ocean
Ember, a young loggerhead turtle, is embarking on a challenging yet rewarding journey through the North Atlantic Ocean. This journey presents opportunities for growth and survival, but also comes with its own set of challenges. As Ember navigates through the colder waters outside of the Gulf Stream, it may face the risk of cold-stunning, a condition where the turtle’s body temperature drops to dangerous levels. However, these waters also contain a higher concentration of nutrients, such as plankton and algae, which serve as food for sea jellies and small shrimp, which in turn feed juvenile turtles and other species. As Ember grows, it will develop a powerful jaw to consume hard-shelled prey like crabs, mollusks, and shrimp. But for now, it must rely on opportunistic meals like those mentioned above.
The Dangers of Plastic Pollution
Unfortunately, Ember may also encounter plastic pollution mixed with its food. The Gumbo Limbo Coastal Stewards, who helped launch Ember, recently found 898 pieces of plastic in the stomach and intestines of a 1-month-old turtle that washed up on shore. This plastic and other trash can be confusing for a young turtle learning what is edible and what is toxic. Other threats that Ember may face include predators like swordfish or bluefin tuna, or accidental capture by fisheries targeting these species.
Undeterred and Onward
Despite these challenges, Ember remains undeterred and has already ventured out into the colder waters of the North Atlantic. The micro-satellite tag attached to Ember’s carapace is estimated to have an 80-day lifespan, although some tags have been known to last longer. As of January 16th, Ember’s tag had been transmitting for 78 days. We are hopeful to receive further transmissions and will continue to share updates on Ember’s journey in our newsletters. Be sure to add your email to our mailing list to see where Ember goes next!
Sources and Further Reading
Webb, P. (n.d.). 9.2 The Gulf Stream – Introduction to Oceanography. Pressbooks. https://rwu.pressbooks.pub/webboceanography/chapter/9-2-the-gulf-stream/
What’s an eddy? (n.d.). https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/details/eddy.html
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. (n.d.). Currents, Gyres, & Eddies. https://www.whoi.edu/know-your-ocean/ocean-topics/how-the-ocean-works/ocean-circulation/currents-gyres-eddies/
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Wow, can’t wait to join Ember on this exciting ocean adventure and learn about the incredible journey of a juvenile loggerhead turtle! 🐢🌊
This sounds like such a heartwarming and educational story! I’m excited to dive into Ember’s journey and discover the wonders of the Atlantic through the eyes of a courageous turtle. 🌊🚀
I am absolutely captivated by the premise of this story! Joining Ember on an oceanic adventure and experiencing the wonders of the Atlantic through the eyes of a courageous turtle sounds like an absolute delight. Can’t wait to dive into this heartwarming and educational journey! 🚀🌊🐢