Leatherback sea turtle

The leatherback sea turtle (*Dermochelys coriacea*) is the largest living turtle species and the only living member of its family, Dermochelyidae.

The leatherback sea turtle (*Dermochelys coriacea*) is the largest living turtle species and the only living member of its family, Dermochelyidae. It is a highly migratory marine reptile found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide, and is known for its leathery shell, deep dives, and jellyfish-based diet.

Taxonomy and appearance

Leatherback sea turtles are classified as *Dermochelys coriacea* and are the only living species in their family. They are distinguished from other sea turtles by their leathery, ridged shell rather than a hard bony carapace.

Distribution and habitat

The species is circumglobal and occurs in tropical and temperate marine waters across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea in some accounts. They are primarily pelagic but may come closer to shore during nesting and foraging.

Behaviour and diet

Leatherbacks are powerful swimmers known for long migrations and deep dives. They feed mainly on jellyfish and other soft-bodied marine organisms, which makes them important predators in marine food webs.

Conservation status

Leatherback sea turtles are listed as endangered in the United States, while the IUCN lists the species as Vulnerable. Major threats include accidental capture in fishing gear, egg collection, coastal development, and loss of nesting beaches.