Kuala Lumpur:Johor Turtle conservation initiatives in Johor are showing promising results, with approximately 5,000 turtle hatchlings, primarily hawksbill and green turtles, emerging each year from protected nesting sites and hatcheries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor Department of Fisheries director Rosmawati Ghazali highlighted key nesting sites such as Pulau Apil, Pulau Dayang, Pulau Besar, and Pulau Tinggi. Pulau Tinggi, in particular, sees the highest number of hatchlings due to its remote location and low population, which reduce threats from human disturbance and predators like dogs and monitor lizards.

Rosmawati explained that turtle eggs naturally face high predation risks, prompting the department to relocate eggs from nesting sites to hatcheries for better survival chances. This proactive measure allows for closer monitoring and better protection against predators.

She also emphasized the importance of these conservation efforts, noting that only one in 1,000 turtle hatchlings is expected to survive to maturity. The department is enhancing these programs through educational initiatives and the deployment of artificial reefs to support marine ecosystems.

Temperature plays a crucial role in the sex determination of turtle hatchlings, with warmer temperatures producing more females. Thus, maintaining suitable conditions is essential, as is achieving a balanced sex ratio. Rosmawati mentioned that the department aims for a ratio of five males to ten females.

Challenges persist on Pulau Besar, where fewer turtle landings occur, and limited electricity and water supply restrict operations. Consequently, eggs from this island are often transferred to the better-equipped hatchery on Pulau Tinggi.

Efforts to control human activity in these sensitive hatchery areas are vital, with access being limited to ensure the protection of these delicate sites.