The Meritta Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center celebrated World Fisheries Day on November 21 with a statement emphasizing the vital role of sustainable fishing in preserving the marine ecosystem. The center highlighted the importance of safeguarding aquatic habitats—seas, lakes, rivers, and oceans—while acknowledging the millions of people who depend on fishing for their livelihoods.
In their statement, Meritta Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center extended gratitude to the fishermen who have supported their efforts. The center also shared the inspiring story of three sea turtles—Sakin, Handan Atalar, and Selim—rescued by local fishermen and successfully rehabilitated before being released back into the ocean on World Fisheries Day.
Biologist Silem Sargın Kara, Director of Meritta Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, congratulated the fishermen on World Fisheries Day, recognizing their critical role in maintaining a balanced and sustainable marine ecosystem.
“In order for nature to sustain its cycles within an orderly system, natural resources must be used responsibly and in a balanced way. Our fishermen play a significant role in this process,” said Kara.
She further highlighted recent visits to fishing communities in Esentepe, Kaplıca, Yeni Erenköy, Karpaz, Sipahi, and Girne, during which the team exchanged ideas about the marine ecosystem, sustainable fishing practices, and protocols for handling injured sea turtles. Kara added, “Through the cooperation of professional fishermen and amateur seafarers, we can extend our reach to protect more sea turtles.”
The center stressed that the survival of all species is integral to maintaining a sustainable marine ecosystem. This shared commitment led to a collaborative roadmap aimed at enhancing conservation efforts and protecting marine biodiversity.
The three rehabilitated green sea turtles—rescued by fishermen Lokman Kahveci, Murat Karabetça, and Ergün Ağcabay from Yeni Erenköy, Yedidalga, and Balalan respectively—were treated for drowning injuries and successfully released into their natural habitat on this significant day.
The Meritta Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center concluded their statement with heartfelt thanks to the fishermen and the broader community for their unwavering support in promoting a sustainable future for the marine ecosystem.
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