The Atlas of Turtle Genomes for Conservation

Turtles are among the most endangered vertebrates on Earth. Worldwide, more than 50% of the 359 species are threatened, driven by habitat loss, illegal trade, overharvesting, and climate change. More than one million turtles enter illegal trade each year, with tens of thousands passing through major U.S. airports alone. Confiscated turtles often face uncertain fates because we cannot determine when they were taken from. Releasing them in the wrong location can harm both the turtles and the ecosystems receiving them.

To address these urgent challenges, Turtle Survival Alliance and La Kretz Director Brad Shaffer have joined forces to build the Atlas of Turtle Genomes for Conservation–a national initiative to generate high-quality genomic reference maps that will revolutionize conservation and support repatriation of trafficked turtles.

Explore our website for full details on the projects: https://turtlesurvival.org/genetics/atgc/