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Leatherback
These are the largest turtles on earth!
The leatherback sea turtle is the most unique of all sea turtle species. As the only living member of the family Dermochelyidea, they are the largest living turtle species and have the greatest migratory distribution of any reptile on the planet. Its distinguishing feature is its carapace, which has a smooth, leathery skin that covers a flexible matrix of bone. This carapace is highly specialized for diving to extreme depths of up to 4,000 feet (1,219 meters). In addition, a unique thermoregulatory adaptation allows leatherbacks to maintain core body temperatures at these extremely cold depths.
Unlike other sea turtles, the bony shell of the leatherback is not visible. Instead it’s covered by a leathery layer of black or brown skin, hence the turtle’s name. The shell has seven ridges running from front to back. Leatherbacks are the largest of the seven living sea turtle species, growing to more than 6.5 feet (two meters) in length and weighing up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms).