How big is the Leatherback turtle?

Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) reaches 150–250 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Leatherback turtle?

Leatherback turtle is found between 0–1280 m deep.

Where can you find the Leatherback turtle?

Found in: Asian Pacific, Caribbean, East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea, Macaronesia, Eastern Pacific.

Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

Key facts

Scientific name: Dermochelys coriacea
Common name: Leatherback turtle
Category: Marine reptiles
Family: Dermochelyidae
Genus: Dermochelys
Size: 150–250 cm
Depth: 0–1280 m
IUCN status: Vulnerable (VU)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: open-water, pelagic
Behaviours: solitary, migratory
Ocean zones: Asian Pacific, Caribbean, East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea, Macaronesia, Eastern Pacific

Description

Dermochelys coriacea reaches 2.5 m and 900 kg, the largest marine turtle in the world. Unique lacking a bony shell: back covered with leathery black skin bearing 7 longitudinal ridges. Only turtle able to dive to 1280 m and maintain body temperature in cold water (partial endothermy). Feeds almost exclusively on jellyfish. Transatlantic and transpacific migrations. IUCN Vulnerable. Very rare and privileged dive encounter.

Photo of Leatherback turtle

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Leatherback turtle?: Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) reaches 150–250 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Leatherback turtle?: Leatherback turtle is found between 0–1280 m deep.
Is the Leatherback turtle dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Leatherback turtle?: IUCN status: Vulnerable (VU).
Where can you find the Leatherback turtle?: Found in: Asian Pacific, Caribbean, East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea, Macaronesia, Eastern Pacific.

Similar species

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 137209)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 9789983)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia