The green turtle is the most common and abundant sea turtle species in the Galapagos. It is unique as the only species that nests in the archipelago and is also found in feeding sites within the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR). These turtles are primarily herbivores, feeding mainly on algae, but they also consume small invertebrates. There are two morphotypes of green turtles in the Galapagos: the black morph and the yellow morph. The black morph has a triangular or conical carapace that varies in color from light to dark brown, black, or dark green. The yellow morph has an oval-shaped carapace with an orange coloration and radiating yellow patterns, and it migrates to the Indo-Pacific to nest. Green turtles are commonly seen in a few places worldwide, including the Galapagos. They live in tropical and subtropical waters and are distinguished by their serrated lower jaw and a single pair of scales covering their eyes. Adults are mainly vegetarians, while juveniles are more opportunistic in their diet. Mating occurs in the warmer months, and females lay their eggs at night, with incubation lasting 45-55 days. The gender of the hatchlings depends on the incubation temperature, with higher temperatures producing females. Hatchlings face numerous predators both on land and in the water. Those that survive grow and mature over 26 to 40 years. Green turtles have special glands to excrete excess salt, allowing them to maintain a stable internal environment. They are fast swimmers, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 mph, and can sleep underwater for a few hours. However, stress reduces their underwater endurance, making them vulnerable to drowning when caught in fishing nets.