First records of a symbiotic relationship between the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and reef fish in northern Peru

Abstract

The present study documented six species of fish feeding on epibiont organisms located on the shell and limbs of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) off the northern coast of Peru (Los Órganos, Piura). This constitutes the first recorded instance of mutualistic symbiosis between fish and turtles in the Southeastern Pacific. Additionally, interaction between damselfish (Stegastes acapulcoensis), barberfish (Johnrandallia nigrirostris) and Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) with C. mydas was also recorded for the first time. Regulatory and conservation efforts will be required in the study area, which should be considered of vital importance in the lifecycle of sea turtles, as it plays a fundamental role in their feeding and symbiotic cleaning actions.