Chelonia mydas

Cayman Islands

“That’s odd”

CONCLUSIONS % Hatch rates at 34” vs 4” the same Post hatch mortality higher at shallower 4” depth Eggs incubated at natural depth produce stronger hatchlings with higher in-water survival?

What makes a good egg?

60 day life support system Amino acids Fatty acids Vitamins Minerals Antioxidants

Wild eggs vs Cayman Turtle Farm Eggs

Carotenoid differences Lutein, Zeaxanthin Higher levels of PUFAs

Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids – building blocks for important hormones

Mice genetically engineered to lack the ability to produce DHA and EPA have fertility problems – low sperm count and mobility The ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 Fas in the diet affects the proportion of inflammatory and non –inflammatory Fas procuced.

What is the N3:N6 ratio in wild diet? Turtle grass - 1:1 What is the N3:N6 ratio in CTF feed? Old diet - 1:5

Natural dietary sources of EPA and DHA include: Fish oil (anchovies) Algae (Spirolina) Where do green sea turles get their EPA and DHA?

Sources of alpha – linolenic acid: Flax (<5% limit) Fish Oil ($$) EPA/DHA commercial procuct ($$$$$) Camelina meal?

CAMELINA MEAL Up to 45% Omega 3 FA 35-45% alpha-linolenic acid Rich in antioxidants such as tocopherols Resists oxidation and rancidity

CURRENT RESEARCH DNA FINGERPRINTING OF BREEDERS ASSESSMENT OF CONSERVATION THROUGH GENTIC ANALYSIS OF WILD EGGS AGING STUDY MEASURMENTS OF TELEMERE LENGTHS TOPICAL LESION TREATMENTS W/ SDS ISOTOPIC SIGNATURES

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