Sistan and Baluchistan, located in the southeast corner of Iran, isn’t known for hosting sea turtles. Their primary habitat lies in the warmer waters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, predominantly along the coasts of Hormozgan and Bushehr provinces further south.
However, there have been some intriguing reports of sea turtle sightings in the coastal areas near Chabahar, the only oceanic port in Iran. These sightings, while uncommon, could potentially be:
Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas): The most likely candidate, as they have the widest range and are known to occasionally venture into the northern Arabian Sea. However, their nesting sites are typically in warmer waters further south.
Hawksbill Sea Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata): Less likely, but possible due to their wider range and occasional presence in the Arabian Sea. However, their nesting grounds are also located in warmer waters.
It’s important to note that these sightings are still unconfirmed and require further research to verify their presence and potential breeding grounds in the region.
Here are some factors that make Sistan and Baluchistan less suitable for sea turtles compared to other parts of Iran:
Colder water temperatures: The waters off the coast of Sistan and Baluchistan are generally cooler than the preferred nesting grounds of most sea turtle species.
Limited suitable nesting sites: The rocky coastline and lack of sandy beaches in Sistan and Baluchistan offer fewer options for nesting.
Human activity: Fishing and coastal development can pose threats to sea turtles in the region.
Despite the challenges, there are efforts underway to study and potentially conserve sea turtles in Iran. Organizations like the Iranian Sea Turtles Conservation (ISTC) and Chabahar Maritime and Marine Sciences University are involved in research and conservation initiatives.
If you encounter any suspected sea turtles in the region, it’s important to report them to the relevant authorities to help gather more data and contribute to their conservation.
Remember, while Sistan and Baluchistan might not be a traditional sea turtle hotspot, the possibility of their presence highlights the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures across their diverse range.
