Ancient Sea Turtle Myrtle in Robust Health After 50 Years at Boston Aquarium

AP - In a testament to resilience and longevity, Myrtle, a venerable green sea turtle who has been a fixture at the New England Aquarium in Boston for over five decades, recently underwent a physical examination, revealing her robust health. The procedure, which took place on Tuesday, involved an elaborate process to hoist the 500-pound reptile from the aquarium's Giant Ocean Tank for her checkup. At an estimated age of up to 95 years, Myrtle is considered to be at the upper limit of her species' lifespan. However, according to Mike O'Neill, the manager of the ocean tank, Myrtle is in "robust condition" and expected to continue captivating visitors for years to come.

Myrtle's significance extends beyond her impressive age and size. "She is iconic," O'Neill remarked, highlighting the turtle's multigenerational appeal. Many visitors, now parents themselves, share memories of Myrtle from their own childhoods with their children. This enduring presence has allowed Myrtle to touch the lives of an estimated 50 million people over the years.

The biannual physical examination of Myrtle is a complex operation. It begins with divers guiding her into an underwater crate. A team comprising veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and aquarists then conducts a thorough health assessment. This includes drawing blood, checking the range of motion in her flippers, and examining her eyes, mouth, and nose for any signs of issues. Additionally, Myrtle undergoes an ultrasound and has her weight recorded before being returned to the ocean tank.

By late Tuesday morning, Myrtle was back in her aquatic home, demonstrating her adaptability and comfort with human interaction. The New England Aquarium notes that Myrtle enjoys having her shell scratched, a sign of her familiarity with human touch after so many years.

Green sea turtles like Myrtle are among the largest species of sea turtles and inhabit tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. Despite their widespread distribution, they are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their numbers in decline.

Myrtle shares her habitat with two loggerhead sea turtles named Carolina and Retread. Despite being roughly half her age and size, both turtles also underwent physical examinations on Tuesday and were reported to be in excellent health by O'Neill.

The New England Aquarium's commitment to the care and well-being of its inhabitants underscores the importance of conservation efforts for endangered species like green sea turtles. Through educational outreach and direct engagement with creatures like Myrtle, the aquarium hopes to inspire future generations to appreciate and protect marine life.