| dc.description.abstract | Information on the locations for feeding, reproductions, and resting, are essential
to effectively protect sea turtle populations and implement conservation efforts. This
type of ecological information is critically important for hawksbill turtle conservation in
Los Roques Archipelago National Park (LRANP) where turtles have been declining in
spite of habitat protection efforts. The goal of this research was to produce a benthic
habitat map of LRANP employing in situ visual surveys, remote sensing and geographic
information system techniques, and to spatially characterize sea turtle occupancy and
patterns of usage by habitat type. Between June and August of 2008, turtle behavior and
habitat use were recorded during 159 h of observation, comprising 46 sighting events (n
= 20 juveniles, n = 26 female adults). Observed activities were grouped into 4
categories: foraging, resting, swimming, and reproductive behavior. The benthic habitat
at each turtle sighting was recorded as one of three categories: coral reef, sand or marine
vegetation. Results suggest that the population of turtles within LRANP is comprised
primarily of female adults and juvenile individuals and that coral reef is the most
important habitat for this species. The most important foraging area in the atoll is a coral patch reef that connects Dos Mosquises Sur and Dos Mosquises Norte. The data in this
thesis have been made available in digital and map form to the managers of LRANP for
management purposes. | en |
