ASSIGNMENT-MKAK1003

SEM-I 2023/2024

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

SUBMITTED BY:

GROUP 4
OBIEKWE JOHN CHIBUZO (MKA221047)
SELVARAJ KESAVARAJ ((MKA221058)
ALIYU MUHAMMAD AMINU (MKA221059)
LAU LIN TAT (MKA221055)
XIE ZILONG (MKA221014)

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA

DECEMBER 2023
 Evolution of the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

1.1 Introduction

The Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) has a long evolutionary history in marine
habitats and is well-known in Malaysia. To prosper in its environment, this species has
undergone major adaptations (Mortimer and Donnelly, 2008). Hawksbills are found all across
the planet, with the greatest populations in the central Atlantic and Indo-Pacific areas (Figure
1). Nesting occurs on beaches in at least 60 nations throughout the tropics in a large, dispersed
pattern. Hawksbills are more numerous in areas with coral reef formations, most likely due to
improved food resources.

Figure 1. Hawksbill turtle distribution worldwide. Dark areas represent known distribution,
while lighter areas represent unknown distribution (FAO 1990).

1.2 Ancient Origins

 Cretaceous Period: Hawksbill Turtles may trace their ancestors back to the Cretaceous
period, around 100 million years ago, a time recognized for its diverse marine life
(Parham and Pyenson, 2010).

 Ancestral Adaptations: These turtles descended from terrestrial origins and gradually
adapted to sea life. Among the most important adaptations are streamlined shells for
efficient swimming and flipper-like limbs (Wyneken, 2001).

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1.3 Development in the Marine Ecosystem

 Coral Reef Association: Hawksbills play an important role in coral reef health by
preying on sponges, preventing sponges from outcompeting corals (Hill, 2001).

 Co-Evolution with Coral Reefs: Hawksbill evolution is tightly tied to coral reef
growth, showing a significant ecological linkage (León and Bjorndal, 2002).

Figure 2. Hawksbill turtles live on coral reefs where their favourite food, sponges, are most
plentiful.

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 Global Warming and its Effects on Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) in
Malaysia

2.1 Introduction

Global warming presents itself in Malaysia through massive deforestation and increasing sea
levels, with severe implications for agriculture and health. Malaysia lost 29% of its tree cover
between 2001 and 2021, contributing to climate change, soil erosion, and increased flooding
risk (The Star, 2021). This deforestation contributes to global warming and additional
environmental damage. Furthermore, rising sea levels, which rise at a rate of around 3.3mm
per year on the east coast and about 5.0mm per year on the west coast, pose a serious threat to
coastal zones. It is expected that by 2040, all of Malaysia's mangrove zones will be submerged,
having a substantial influence on the country's industrial zones by 2060 (The Star, 2021).

Malaysia has responded to these difficulties by putting in place a number of mitigation and
adaptation plans. By 2030, the government wants to generate more than half of its power from
renewable sources, and by 2050, it wants to reach net-zero emissions. This strategy calls for
developing a blue economic blueprint for coastal development and extending the infrastructure
for electric vehicles (Wikipedia, 2023). Despite these lofty goals, there are reservations about
how these strategies will be carried out, especially with regard to the thorough implementation
plans and the ability to enforce intricate rules (Channel News Asia, 2021).

The sea turtle species known as the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is distinguished
by its exquisitely patterned shell and unusual beak-like mouth. For millions of years, this
species has been essential to marine ecosystems. However, due mostly to human activity and
climate change, the Hawksbill has become severely endangered in recent decades (Fauna &
Flora International, 2018).

2.2 Impact of Climate Change

 Rising Sea Levels: The increase in sea levels, a result of melting ice caps due to global
warming, poses a significant threat to Hawksbill nesting beaches. The loss of these
habitats is critical as it directly affects their reproductive success.
 Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination: Climate change has led to warmer sand
temperatures at nesting sites, which skew the sex ratio of hatchlings towards females,
potentially leading to reproductive challenges for the species.

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  Food Source Reduction: Hawksbills mainly feed on sponges in coral reefs. The
degradation of these reefs due to rising ocean temperatures and acidification has led to
a reduction in their primary food source (Fauna & Flora International, 2018).

2.3 Global Perspective on Species and Climate Change

The significant alterations in animals' habitats, behaviors, and physiological characteristics that
have been noted are clear indicators of the effects of global warming. One glaring example of
how climate change directly affects animals is the Bramble Cay melomys, which went extinct
as a result of rising sea levels. Significant changes in habitats and migration patterns, as shown
in species such as Chinook salmon, and physiological changes in green sea turtles, where
warmer temperatures skew sex ratios, are other noteworthy implications (IUCN, 2021).
Moreover, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems is seriously threatened by the loss of coral
reefs brought on by ocean warming and acidification (IUCN, 2021).

On a larger scale, climatic geography has a substantial impact on species diversity in groups
such as birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. The link between temperature, topography,
and species richness highlights the intricate interaction of environmental variables influencing
biodiversity (Nature, 2021). Furthermore, species' adaptive capability, a conservation priority,
is critical in recognizing and managing their vulnerability to these changes (U.S. Geological
Survey, 2021). These examples emphasize the crucial importance of global conservation and
adaptation efforts to limit the effects of climate change on biodiversity and safeguard the
survival of numerous species.

Climate change is harming a large number of species worldwide. Climate change is now
affecting approximately 10,000 species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with
many facing an increased risk of extinction (IUCN, 2021).

2.4 The Hawksbill in Malaysia

 Malaysian Marine Biodiversity: Malaysia's diverse marine habitats have been crucial
for Hawksbill Turtles. The Coral Triangle, in particular, provides an essential habitat
for them (Pilcher and Ali, 2005).

 Cultural Significance: Hawksbill Turtles hold cultural and economic importance in

Malaysian coastal communities, though this has also led to their exploitation (Mortimer
and Donnelly, 2008).

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2.4.1 Challenges and Changes

 Human Impact: Intensive hunting and habitat destruction have drastically impacted
Hawksbill populations in recent centuries (Mortimer and Donnelly, 2008).

 Climate Change: The effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and
temperature changes, pose new threats to Hawksbill Turtles, affecting their nesting sites
and food sources (Hawkes et al., 2009).

2.4.2 Conservation Efforts

 Conservation Initiatives: Malaysia has implemented various conservation strategies,

including protecting nesting beaches and regulating fishing practices (Pilcher and Ali,
2005).

 Future Outlook: The ongoing conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of
Hawksbill Turtles in Malaysia and the health of the ecosystems they support (Mortimer
and Donnelly, 2008).

2.5 Species Similar to the Hawksbill Turtle in Malaysia

2.5.1 Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

The Green Sea Turtle, like the Hawksbill, is a big, largely herbivorous sea turtle. It is
distinguished by its smooth, heart-shaped shell and a range of skin colors from olive to black.
The Green Sea Turtle may be found in Malaysian seas, particularly in nesting areas in Sabah,
Sarawak, and Penang. Their existence in Malaysia is due to the region's diverse marine habitats,
notably the seagrass beds, which are essential for their nutrition. Green Sea Turtles, which are
listed as endangered, suffer comparable risks as Hawksbills, including as habitat degradation,
poaching, and the influence of fisheries (Hays, 2004).

2.5.2 Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

This species is distinguished by its modest size and olive-colored carapace. Olive Ridleys are
well-known for their arribada, or mass nesting activity. Olive Ridley Turtles are less numerous
in Malaysia, yet they can be found along the shore. Malaysia's ideal coastal environments and
conservation initiatives to conserve nesting beaches are responsible for their prevalence
(Pritchard, 1997).

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2.5.3 Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

The Leatherback turtle is the biggest extant turtle and is identified by the absence of a bony
shell. It has a leathery carapace instead. Leatherback turtles used to nest in high numbers in
Terengganu, but their numbers have plummeted. Conservation efforts are continuing to
safeguard this severely endangered species (Spotila, 2004).

2.6 Advantages of Preserving the Hawksbill Turtle

 Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health: Hawksbill Turtles contribute to the health of

coral reefs by controlling sponge populations. This, in turn, aids in maintaining the
biodiversity and resilience of these ecosystems (Mortimer and Donnelly, 2008).
 Tourism and Economic Benefits: Areas known for turtle watching, including
Hawksbills, attract tourists, contributing to local economies. Sustainable ecotourism
centered around turtle conservation can be a significant source of income.
 Research and Education: Hawksbill Turtles provide valuable opportunities for
scientific research, enhancing our understanding of marine ecosystems and the impacts
of climate change.
 Cultural Importance: In many coastal communities, turtles hold cultural significance.
Preserving them helps maintain cultural heritage and community identity.
 Environmental Indicators: As sensitive indicators of environmental health, the status
of Hawksbill populations can help gauge the health of marine ecosystems, guiding
conservation efforts.

2.7 Proposed Adaptation and Conservation Strategies

 Habitat Protection and Restoration: Implementing coastal management and

conservation programs to protect and restore Hawksbill nesting beaches is crucial.
 Regulating Sand Temperature: Employing techniques to manage sand temperatures at
nesting sites can help maintain a balanced sex ratio among hatchlings.
 Coral Reef Conservation: Protecting and restoring coral reefs to ensure the availability
of Hawksbill food sources is vital. This includes measures to reduce coral bleaching
and ocean acidification.
 Community Engagement and Education: Raising awareness about Hawksbill
conservation and involving local communities in protection efforts can have significant
impacts.

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  Policy Development and Enforcement: Strengthening legal frameworks to protect
Hawksbill turtles and their habitats is essential, alongside the enforcement of existing
laws against illegal trade.
 Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research to monitor Hawksbill populations and the
effects of climate change on their habitats is critical for effective conservation.
 International Collaboration: Global cooperation is necessary for the conservation of
Hawksbills, given their migratory nature and the global impact of climate change.

Figure 3. Simulated graphical representation showing the impact of global warming on species and
plants in Malaysia over the past three decades and across Asia over the past five decades.

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3.0 Conclusion

The survival of the Hawksbill Turtle in the face of climate change is contingent upon a
combination of habitat protection, legal frameworks, community involvement, and global
collaboration. These efforts are crucial not only for the conservation of Hawksbills but also for
the broader ecological balance within marine environments in Malaysia.

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References

Hays, G. C. (2004). The implications of climatic change for the nesting of Caretta caretta
(Loggerhead Turtles). Journal of Thermal Biology, 29(4), 255-263.

Mortimer, J. A., and Donnelly, M. (2008). Eretmochelys imbricata. The IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species.

Fauna & Flora International. (2018.). Hawksbill turtles.

IUCN. (2021). Species and climate change - resource.

Nature. (2021). The geography of climate and the global patterns of species diversity.
U.S. Geological Survey. (2021). Species and Ecosystem Responses to Global Change.
Pritchard, P. C. H. (1997). Evolution, phylogeny, and current status. In The Biology of Sea
Turtles (pp. 1-28). CRC Press.

Spotila, J. R. (2004). Sea Turtles: A Complete Guide to Their Biology, Behavior, and
Conservation. Johns Hopkins University Press.

Hawkes, L. A., Broderick, A. C., Godfrey, M. H., and Godley, B. J. (2009). Climate change and
marine turtles. Endangered Species Research, 7, 137-154.

Hill, J. (2001). Can corals be harvested sustainably? A view from the farm. Current Biology,
11(12), R482-R483.

León, Y. M., and Bjorndal, K. A. (2002). Selective feeding in the hawksbill turtle, an important
predator in coral reef ecosystems. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 245, 249-258.

Parham, J. F., and Pyenson, N. D. (2010). New sea turtle from the Miocene of Peru and the
iterative evolution of feeding ecomorphologies since the Cretaceous. Journal of Paleontology,
84(2), 231-247.

Pilcher, N. J., and Ali, L. (2005). Recovery plan for marine turtles in Malaysia. Marine
Research Foundation, Sabah, Malaysia.

The Star. (2022). The effects of climate change in Malaysia.

The Star. (2021). The effects of climate change in Malaysia.

Wikipedia. (2023). Climate change in Malaysia.

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Channel News Asia. (2021). Malaysia’s climate plan is high on ambition, but concerns linger
over execution: Experts.

Wyneken, J. (2001). The anatomy of sea turtles. U.S. Department of Commerce NOAA
Technical Memorandum NMFS-SEFSC-470, 1-172.

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