The New England Aquarium is one of the most renowned aquariums in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the aquarium is home to over 20,000 marine animals, including fish, seals, sea lions, and even sharks. Among the many fascinating creatures that call the aquarium home is a beloved resident named Myrtle the Turtle. But have you ever wondered how old this gentle giant is? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of turtles and explore the fascinating story of Myrtle’s age.
Introduction to Turtles
Turtles have been on our planet for over 220 million years, with fossil records dating back to the Triassic period. These slow-moving, long-lived creatures have evolved to thrive in a variety of environments, from the driest deserts to the deepest oceans. With over 360 species of turtles found worldwide, it’s no wonder that they have captured the hearts of many.
One of the most fascinating aspects of turtles is their remarkable longevity. Some species of turtles can live up to 80 years or more in the wild, while others have been known to live up to 150 years or more in captivity. This is due to their slow metabolism, which allows them to conserve energy and live off stored fat reserves for extended periods.
The New England Aquarium and Myrtle the Turtle
The New England Aquarium is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the conservation and education of marine life. With a focus on promoting public awareness and appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants, the aquarium has become a beloved destination for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
Among the many fascinating creatures that call the aquarium home is Myrtle the Turtle, a resident of the aquarium’s Giant Turtle exhibit. Myrtle is a female Aldabra tortoise, a species native to the Seychelles islands off the coast of East Africa. She was born in 1955 and has been a resident of the aquarium since 1966.
The Age of Myrtle the Turtle
So, how old is Myrtle the Turtle? According to the New England Aquarium, Myrtle was born in 1955, making her approximately 67 years old as of 2022. This makes her one of the oldest living turtles in captivity, and a beloved resident of the aquarium. (See Also: How to Use Crushed Coral in Aquarium? A Beginner’s Guide)
But how does the aquarium determine the age of its turtles? Turtles, unlike humans, do not have a fixed birthdate, as they do not have a traditional birth certificate. Instead, aquarium staff use a combination of methods to estimate the age of their turtles, including:
- Counting the rings on the turtle’s shell, similar to counting tree rings
- Measuring the turtle’s size and weight
- Observing the turtle’s behavior and physical characteristics
By combining these methods, aquarium staff can estimate the age of their turtles with a high degree of accuracy. In the case of Myrtle, her age was determined through a combination of shell ring counting and physical measurements.
The Life of Myrtle the Turtle
Myrtle the Turtle has lived a long and fulfilling life at the New England Aquarium. Born in 1955, she was one of the first turtles to be brought to the aquarium when it opened in 1966. Over the years, she has become a beloved resident, with visitors of all ages coming to see her and learn about the fascinating world of turtles.
Myrtle’s life at the aquarium has not been without its challenges. In the 1970s, she developed a fungal infection that required extensive treatment and care. Despite this setback, she has continued to thrive, and is now one of the oldest and wisest turtles in the aquarium.
Care and Conservation of Turtles
Turtles, like all animals, require specialized care and conservation efforts to thrive. The New England Aquarium is committed to providing the best possible care for its turtles, including:
- Providing a nutritious diet
- Maintaining a clean and safe environment
- Providing regular veterinary care
- Supporting conservation efforts for turtles and their habitats
The aquarium also participates in conservation efforts for turtles and their habitats, including: (See Also: Why Aren’t My Aquarium Plants Growing? – Troubleshooting Tips)
- Supporting research and conservation programs
- Participating in breeding programs for endangered turtle species
- Providing educational programs and materials for visitors
Conclusion
Myrtle the Turtle is a beloved resident of the New England Aquarium, and a testament to the remarkable longevity and adaptability of turtles. As one of the oldest living turtles in captivity, she has captured the hearts of millions of visitors over the years. By learning about Myrtle’s age and life, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation and care for these incredible creatures.
Recap
Here are the key points from our article:
- Myrtle the Turtle is a resident of the New England Aquarium
- She was born in 1955 and is approximately 67 years old as of 2022
- The aquarium determines the age of its turtles using a combination of methods, including shell ring counting and physical measurements
- Myrtle has lived a long and fulfilling life at the aquarium, despite challenges and setbacks
- The aquarium is committed to providing the best possible care for its turtles, and supports conservation efforts for turtles and their habitats
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often do turtles at the New England Aquarium get veterinary care?
Turtles at the New England Aquarium receive regular veterinary care, including annual check-ups and vaccinations. They also receive specialized care for any health issues that may arise.
Q: Can I touch or hold the turtles at the New England Aquarium?
No, visitors are not allowed to touch or hold the turtles at the New England Aquarium. The aquarium is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its animals, and human contact can be stressful and potentially harmful for them.
Q: How can I support conservation efforts for turtles?
There are many ways to support conservation efforts for turtles, including: (See Also: How to Remove Fish Poop from Aquarium? Easy Steps)
- Donating to reputable conservation organizations
- Spreading awareness about the importance of turtle conservation
- Supporting eco-tourism and responsible wildlife viewing
Q: Can I adopt a turtle at the New England Aquarium?
No, the New England Aquarium does not offer a turtle adoption program. However, you can support the aquarium’s conservation efforts by becoming a member or making a donation.
Q: How can I learn more about turtles and their conservation?
There are many resources available to learn more about turtles and their conservation, including:
- The New England Aquarium’s website and educational programs
- Reputable conservation organizations and research institutions
- Books and documentaries about turtles and their habitats