The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience
A published study by the Research and Hospital Team (Whilde et al. 2024) sheds light on the growing threat of fibropapillomatosis (FP), a tumor disease affecting sea turtles around the world, particularly green turtles. The research, led by a global team of experts, surveyed 44 specialists in sea turtle health and rehabilitation to gain insight into FP’s increasing prevalence and the challenges faced in treating afflicted turtles.
According to the study, over 70% of respondents recognize FP as a cancerous disease, with the majority reporting that it is spreading rapidly in their regions. Experts noted a significant rise in both the number of cases and the severity of tumors, particularly in green turtles, which are among the species most vulnerable to FP. Treatment options vary, but most experts rely on surgical removal of tumors, either with lasers or scalpels, while some also use anti-cancer drugs. Despite these efforts, the presence of internal tumors often results in euthanasia due to the lack of viable treatment methods.
The study emphasizes the need for greater funding and better facilities to support research, rehabilitation, and treatment efforts. Experts agree that large-scale, multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for advancing understanding of FP and improving outcomes for sea turtle populations. The research highlights critical gaps in knowledge, including how the disease spreads, the environmental triggers, and how to prevent tumor regrowth after treatment. As fibropapillomatosis continues to spread to new regions, this study underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action to address this growing conservation challenge.