<P> The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), also known as the green turtle, black (sea) turtle or Pacific green turtle, is a large sea turtle of the family Cheloniidae . It is the only species in the genus Chelonia . Its range extends throughout tropical and subtropical seas around the world, with two distinct populations in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, but it is also found in the Indian Ocean . The common name comes from the usually green fat found beneath its carapace; these turtles' shells are olive to black . </P> <P> This sea turtle's dorsoventrally flattened body is covered by a large, teardrop - shaped carapace; it has a pair of large, paddle - like flippers . It is usually lightly colored, although in the eastern Pacific populations parts of the carapace can be almost black . Unlike other members of its family, such as the hawksbill sea turtle, C. mydas is mostly herbivorous . The adults usually inhabit shallow lagoons, feeding mostly on various species of seagrasses . The turtles bite off the tips of the blades of seagrass, which keeps the grass healthy . </P> <P> Like other sea turtles, green sea turtles migrate long distances between feeding grounds and hatching beaches . Many islands worldwide are known as Turtle Island due to green sea turtles nesting on their beaches . Females crawl out on beaches, dig nests and lay eggs during the night . Later, hatchlings emerge and scramble into the water . Those that reach maturity may live to 80 years in the wild . </P> <P> C. mydas is listed as endangered by the IUCN and CITES and is protected from exploitation in most countries . It is illegal to collect, harm or kill them . In addition, many countries have laws and ordinances to protect nesting areas . However, turtles are still in danger due to human activity . In some countries, turtles and their eggs are hunted for food . Pollution indirectly harms turtles at both population and individual scales . Many turtles die after being caught in fishing nets . Also, real estate development often causes habitat loss by eliminating nesting beaches . </P>

Where do green sea turtles lay their eggs