This trip is part of a scientific program aimed at following the movements of sea turtles and studying their itineraries. The « Lara » turtle, an adult female of the Caretta caretta species, known as the caouanne turtle, was equipped with a satellite tracking device before being released into the sea on June 24, 2026, after nesting in June in Lara Bay, Cyprus.Observe nature
The « Lara » turtle is 78 centimeters long and 66 centimeters wide, according to the Ghliss association for the marine environment.
Lara in the lagoon of Bougrara
The movements of the « Lara » turtle were recorded in the Boughrara lagoon on October 1, 2026. It continues to evolve in this marine area characterized by its rich biodiversity and the abundance of food resources for marine species.
The presence of the turtle in this lagoon underlines the importance of protecting natural habitats and preserving marine wealth. Coastal areas and lagoons are essential environments for the life and feeding of many marine species.
A journey that highlights the importance of international cooperation
The « Lara » route connected the islands of Cyprus and Djerba, crossing the Cypriot, Egyptian and Libyan waters over a distance of about 1,700 nautical miles. This journey illustrates the interconnection of the marine ecosystems of the Mediterranean and highlights the importance of international cooperation to protect sea turtles and preserve their natural habitats.
This trip also highlights the role of marine protected areas and coastal lagoons in preserving marine life. He recalls that the protection of turtles requires permanent coordination between researchers, official institutions, associations and fishermen from the different countries of the region.
An initiative to protect sea turtles in Djerba
This initiative is part of a cooperation between the Mediterranean Association for the Research and Conservation of Sea Turtles (MedTRACS) and the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC), with the support of the « Fahlo » foundation.Observe nature
The Ghliss association for the marine environment works, in collaboration with these partners, to protect sea turtles and their natural habitats in Djerba, especially in the Ras Rmel marine reserve and the Boughrara lagoon. This action is carried out in partnership with the Coastal Protection and Planning Agency (APAL), the National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies (INSTM), the North African Sea Turtle Network (NASTNet), as well as the Ajim and Boughrara fishing development groups.
These efforts underline the need to continue monitoring sea turtles and protect their living and breeding areas, in order to contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity in Tunisia and throughout the Mediterranean basin.
