Caretta: meaning, definitions and examples
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caretta
[ ˈkɛrɛtə ]
marine biology
Caretta refers to a genus of large marine turtles, commonly known as loggerhead turtles. They are characterized by their large heads and are often found in warm seas. Loggerhead turtles are known for their long migrations and play a significant role in their marine ecosystems.
Synonyms
loggerhead, sea turtle.
Examples of usage
- The caretta swims gracefully through the ocean.
- Researchers study caretta nesting sites on the beach.
- The caretta population is facing threats from climate change.
- Caretta tortoises can live for several decades.
Etymology
The term 'Caretta' is derived from the Latin word for turtle, which is 'carreta'. It was first used scientifically in the 18th century when biologists began to classify marine species. The loggerhead turtle specifically gained its name due to its distinctive, large head, which is more pronounced than that of other turtle species. Caretta is part of a family of turtles that have been around for millions of years, showing remarkably little change in their form and genetic makeup over geological time periods. The genus Caretta is particularly significant in the study of marine ecosystems, as these turtles contribute to the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs.