Differences in body size among populations of red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) subjected to different levels of harvesting
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Published source details
Close L.M. & Seigel R.A. (1997) Differences in body size among populations of red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) subjected to different levels of harvesting. Chelonian Conservation and Biology, 2, 563-566.
Published source details Close L.M. & Seigel R.A. (1997) Differences in body size among populations of red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) subjected to different levels of harvesting. Chelonian Conservation and Biology, 2, 563-566.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Protect habitat: All reptiles (excluding sea turtles) Action Link |
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Protect habitat: All reptiles (excluding sea turtles)
A replicated, site comparison study in 1990–1991 in eight swamps and wetlands in southern Louisiana and western Mississippi, USA (Close & Seigel 1997) found that sites protected from turtle harvesting and human disturbance had larger red-eared sliders Trachemys scripta elegans compared to harvested sites. Both male and female sliders in unharvested sites were larger (male: 19 cm carapace length; female: 23) than in harvested sites (17, 18). While 24–28% of female turtles in unharvested sites were 24–28 cm long, there were no female turtles >22 cm long in harvested sites. In 1990–1991, turtles were captured from three protected (no public access or turtle harvesting), three public access (public access and no commercial harvesting) and two harvested sites (active commercial harvest). Turtles in protected and public access sites were trapped in baited hoop nets. Turtles in harvested sites were trapped by local hunters or purchased from local fish markets.
(Summarised by: Maggie Watson, Katie Sainsbury)
