JCU turtle research centre opens in Townsville

James Cook University has opened the first stage of a world-first turtle health laboratory at its Townsville campus in north Queensland.

Scientists will study diseases, parasites and other factors affecting the survival of six species of marine turtles found along the Queensland coast and on Great Barrier Reef islands.  

They will work with state conservation agencies, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and turtle biologists from other countries to identify potential threats to the survival of hatchlings and adult animals.