Unusual behaviour of turtles in sea near MT New Diamond

Unusual behaviour of turtles in the vicinity of the seas affected by the New Diamond vessel which caught fire off the east coast recently, has been observed by scientists.

Principal Scientist at National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency Dr. Prabath Jayasinghe said that an abnormal observation of these turtles has been recorded.

Speaking to Daily Mirror, he said they had informed the relevant officials regarding the behavioural change of these turtles.

“Though these turtles were not found in the area where a 2 metre oil patch was noticed in the seas near the MT New Diamond, it is yet to be ascertained whether any impact of the oil has resulted in this type of behaviour of turtles, Dr. Jayasinghe said.

“It is rare to notice turtles during our usual inspection journeys. However, we noticed several turtles that were finding it difficult to swim downwards in a very recent inspection journey, Dr. Jayasinghe added.

When asked whether any other marine species were found with similar behavioural changes, he said other species like whales, dolphins were seen but they were not behaving abnormally as the turtles.

Marine species especially whales, dolphins and turtles are abundantly seen in the seas off Ampara where New Diamond vessel caught fire. These species have to come out of the water to breathe. (Sheain Fernandopulle)