Discovery of 20 Sea Turtle Carcasses in Jask Sparks Serious Environmental Alarm
2025-April-09
On April 8, 2025, the discovery of approximately 20 sea turtle carcasses in Lafik Village, Jask County, sparked widespread concern among environmental activists and local communities. Following the incident, on April 9, 2025, the Midaf Nature Conservation Association, in collaboration with the Marine Department of Hormozgan Environmental Protection, dispatched a team of experts to the site to investigate the cause of this tragic occurrence. However, by the time of the investigation, the team observed only 8 sea turtle carcasses.
During their investigation, the Midaf team examined three areas: the beach at Lafik Village, Jask City Beach, and Abkouhi Village Beach. Unfortunately, sea turtle carcasses were found in all three locations. Local observations indicated that this phenomenon frequently occurs during specific seasons in these areas, raising alarm among local communities and environmental advocates.
Preliminary findings showed that most of the carcasses belonged to immature turtles, with only a few displaying fractures on their carapaces. This suggests the possibility that these valuable creatures were trapped in fishing nets, leading to suffocation. Given the long process of sexual maturity in sea turtles, the death of juveniles not only negatively impacts the current population but also poses a severe threat to their reproductive cycle.
The surveyed areas were located near fishing docks and zones. Discussions with fishermen and field observations revealed that harmful practices such as gillnetting (with net meshes approximately 30 cm) and destructive, illegal trawling are currently in use in the region. These findings highlight significant challenges in managing marine resources. Both gillnetting and trawling can cause devastating impacts on marine ecosystems, including biodiversity loss and damage to sensitive habitats.
Sea turtles inhabiting Iranian waters are classified as endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This underscores the critical importance of these creatures and doubles our responsibility to protect them. Urgent actions, such as raising awareness among local communities, regulating human activities, and addressing other potential threats, especially reducing the use of destructive fishing gear, could play a significant role in preventing the recurrence of such incidents.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of protecting marine species and their crucial role in maintaining the balance of global ecosystems and sustaining the livelihoods of fishing communities. Now is the time to take more decisive measures to protect these invaluable and ancient creatures, which are part of our irreplaceable natural heritage.
Examination of the Stranded Dolphin Carcass on the Beach of Ziarat Village, Parsian County
2025-February-22
On February 21, 2025, a member of the Midaf Society in Bushehr reported a dolphin carcass in the village of Ziarat-Parsian, Hormozgan province. Following the report, the head of the Ziarat village council moved the carcass to a safe area to allow experts from the Midaf team to conduct a final examination.
Upon standard measurements, the total length of the dolphin, excluding the fluke, was recorded at approximately 1.55 meters, and its sex was determined to be female. The fluke, which aids in forward movement and buoyancy, was likely severed by a boat’s propeller, possibly contributing to the animal's death.
During the autopsy, parasites known as Braunina cordiformis were found in the dolphin's stomach, causing damage to the stomach tissue. Morphological characteristics confirmed that this dolphin likely belongs to the species Stenella longirostris (Spinner Dolphin). To confirm the findings, the animal's skull was removed and sent to the Midaf team center in Bandra Abbas.
Each year, numerous dolphins lose their lives due to collisions with vessels. To reduce these incidents, it is essential to identify suitable habitats and train boaters and fishermen in Hormozgan Province. Additionally, proper education for tourists on how to observe and maintain a safe distance from marine mammals is crucial.
Struggle for Survival: Rescue and Conservation of the Green Turtle in Bandar Abbas
In a rare and noteworthy event, marine experts at the Department of Environment of Hormozgan Province observed and endeavored to rescue a Chelonia mydas green turtle, again emphasizing the critical importance of conserving endangered species.
Observation of a Turtle in Need
On Wednesday, January 24, 2025, a report regarding a turtle in need of assistance at Shahid Bahonar Port in Bandar Abbas was received. Environmental experts immediately arrived at the site and encountered a turtle urgently needing treatment.
Initial Examination and Treatment
The juvenile turtle, weighing 2,400 grams and measuring 303 mm in carapace length, was assessed by veterinarians and subsequently transferred to the “Midaf” Nature Conservation Society for continued care. The turtle’s carapace was severely infested with barnacles, algae, and bacterial infections, which posed significant challenges during treatment. It was taken to Petland Veterinary Clinic in Bandar Abbas, where Dr. Mohammad Babaei voluntarily initiated its treatment.
Challenges in Treatment and Hope for Recovery
Radiological examinations revealed severe lung infections; however, no foreign objects were found in other internal organs. Despite the less than 5% chance of recovery, the Petland veterinary team, alongside Midaf experts, commenced treatment. The process included daily antibiotic injections, shell cleaning, and feeding through gavage. Initial signs of improvement in the turtle's condition were observed.
Efforts to Revive
After six days of intensive care, the turtle, unable to breathe naturally, experienced severe respiratory distress. On the seventh day, despite several attempts at respiratory resuscitation, the turtle sadly passed away.
Recommendations and Lessons for Better Conservation
Given that irresponsible tourism, fishing gear entanglements, and habitat destruction pose serious threats to this vulnerable species, this incident highlights the need to improve education regarding sea turtle conservation and establish specialized centers for their treatment.
The Importance of Protecting the Green Turtle
The green turtle, scientifically known as Chelonia mydas, is listed as Endangered (EN) in the IUCN Red List. This species plays a crucial role in maintaining habitats like seagrass beds, making their conservation essential for preserving marine ecosystem balance. This rescue story, despite its unfortunate ending, reminds us that the protection of nature and endangered species requires knowledge, collaboration, relentless effort, and unwavering commitment.
2025-January-24
Midaf's presence at the 22nd International Environmental Exhibition: ''Public Participation, Green Economy, Sustainable Future''
2024-December-18
The 22nd International Environmental Exhibition commenced on December 19th at the Shahr-e Aftab International Exhibition Center in Tehran, with the theme "Public Participation, Green Economy, Sustainable Future." This prestigious event featured over 200 industrial, mining, and knowledge-based companies, and was inaugurated by Mohammadreza Aref, the First Vice President of Iran. The exhibition spanned four days and received significant attention and participation.
The booth of the Midaf Nature Conservation Society was highly acclaimed by the public, high-ranking officials, and renowned scholars. This enthusiasm underscores the growing importance of environmental conservation and highlights the effective initiatives undertaken by Midaf.
Prominent officials, including Dr. Shina Ansari, Head of the Environmental Protection Organization, visited the Midaf booth. Esteemed professors such as Dr. Esmaeil Kahrom and Dr. Houshang Ziaie were special guests who explored the latest achievements and activities of Midaf, sharing their insights and suggestions with the organization’s members.
Additionally, students and environmental activists engaged with the Midaf booth, discussing future projects and initiatives. These interactions enhanced public awareness and understanding of environmental issues and fostered new collaborations and expanded networking opportunities.
In summary, the exhibition provided a unique opportunity to showcase Midaf’s objectives, activities, and to attract new supporters and collaborators. The significant presence of both the public and officials at the Midaf booth reflects the organization’s commitment and efforts in marine environmental conservation. By presenting its achievements, Midaf once again emphasized the critical importance of biodiversity conservation and the role of education and awareness-raising.
