By Ranjan Bhaduri
Mar 12, (THAINDIAN NEWS) The loggerheads turtles may be put in endangered species list if a federal government recommendation is made effective, certain sources have reported. The recommendation was made on Wednesday. However, it may result in stringent restriction on maritime trades and fishing. These nomadic and huge sea turtles have been put in a threatened category since the year 1978 but recent revisions made by the federal scientists suggest that their position should be stepped up to the endangered category. The researchers think that large number of turtles get injured by fishing nets and activities that takes place in their nesting zones. The proposal had been put jointly by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the fisheries division of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The proposal will be made permanent after being put in a public comment period. The move has been welcomed by the environment and wildlife lobbies who feel that the species should be conserved for maintaining balance in the marine ecosystem. Debates exist regarding the exact number of these turtles and how many of them get killed per year owing to rampant fishing and illegal maritime trade practices. The proponent of the proposal argue that almost 40 percent fall has been noticed in the number of female turtles who come to Florida coastline for nesting each year.

Loggerhead turtles are known for their big heads which help them in crushing preys. They can travel thousands of miles in marine water as it has been observed. If the turtles are placed in the endangered category, the government will have to take adequate measures to protect their nesting regions and natural habitats.