Sea turtle mystery

The death of more than 100 rare sea turtles continues to be a mystery in El Salvador. Reuters reports that a total of 119 dead turtles have been found at different points along El Salvador's coast since the start of the year. The turtles belong to the Olive Ridley, Hawksbill and Green turtle species.

The leading hypothesis is that toxins from red tide have poisoned the turtles. Last month I erroneously reported that red tide had dissipated and that the ban on the sale of mussels, oysters, clams and other shellfish had lifted. In fact, that ban, which began last November, continues in effect.

La Prensa Grafica has a special section devoted to the sea turtle story, including graphics and photos.

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