Wildlife

Marine Turtle Fibropapilloma Disease

Fibropapillomatosis in sea turtles is a growing welfare concern linked to environmental degradation and immune system compromise.

Key Facts

Fibropapillomatosis causes tumor growth on skin, eyes and internal organs of sea turtles
Green turtles are most affected with prevalence up to 60% in some nearshore populations
The herpes virus responsible is thought to be activated by immune suppression from pollution
Surgical removal is possible but recurrence is common in polluted habitats

Welfare Considerations

Sea turtles with fibropapillomatosis suffer progressive disability — tumors obstruct vision causing navigation failure, impair swimming and feeding efficiency, and eventually cause death. This welfare problem is directly linked to human-caused coastal water quality degradation. Reducing nutrient and chemical pollution that compromises turtle immune systems would reduce the disease burden.

What You Can Do

Support coastal water quality improvement initiatives
Reduce fertilizer and chemical runoff in coastal watersheds
Donate to sea turtle rehabilitation hospitals
Advocate for stronger coastal development regulations