Reproductive Disorders and Perinatology of Sea Turtles

Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2017 May;20(2):345-370. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2016.11.002. Epub 2017 Feb 5.

Abstract

Sea turtles' reproductive disorders are underdiagnosed, but potentially, there are several diseases that may affect gonads, genitalia, and annexes. Viruses, bacteria, and parasites may cause countless disorders, but more frequently the cause is traumatic or linked to human activities. Furthermore, veterinary management of the nest is of paramount importance as well as the care of newborns (also in captivity). This article gives an overview on the methods used to manage nests and reproductive activities of these endangered chelonians species.

Keywords: Hatchling; Nest; Newborns; Reproduction; Sea turtles.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Female
  • Genital Diseases, Female / veterinary*
  • Genital Diseases, Male / veterinary*
  • Male
  • Nesting Behavior
  • Oviposition / physiology
  • Turtles / anatomy & histology
  • Turtles / physiology*