Scientists are sounding the alarm after discovering 492 plastic fragments inside dead sea turtles along the Mediterranean coast. The shocking findings, published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin, reveal a growing threat to marine life — and a wake-up call for humans. 🚨
When Turtles Meet Trash
Researchers from the University of Exeter and the North Cyprus Society for the Protection of Turtles examined 135 loggerhead turtles found stranded or caught in fishing nets near northern Cyprus. Over 40% had ingested plastic larger than 5mm — equivalent to swallowing a LEGO brick whole. 🧱
\"These turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish or get entangled in debris,\" explained lead researcher Dr. Emily Duncan. \"Every piece we found represents a failure in waste management.\"
Why This Matters to You 🌍
The Mediterranean, a hotspot for both tourism and plastic pollution, faces a 26% increase in marine litter since 2020. Turtles act as \"ocean health indicators\" — their suffering signals broader ecosystem risks affecting fisheries, beaches, and food chains.
💡 Quick Fact: A single plastic bottle takes 450 years to decompose. #Yikes
