Species assemblage and distribution of turtle barnacles (Cirripedia: Coronuloidea) on foraging green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Persian Gulf

Studying the diversity and distribution of epibionts of sea turtles can provide substantial information about the behaviour and ecology of the host. Yet, such information is lacking in many areas. In the present study, the assemblage and distribution of coronuloid barnacles on the green sea turtle, Chelonia mydas were accessed in the harsh environment of the Persian Gulf. Three coronuloid barnacle species (Platylepas hexastylos, Stomatolepas transversa, and Chelonibia testudinaria) and an acorn barnacle (Balanus trigonus) were recorded. Different coronuloid barnacles occupied varying microhabitats on the turtle’s body indicating their niche partitioning. Also, all three coronuloid species showed an aggregated distribution. Individuals of C. testudinaria mostly occupied the posterior margin, whereas the individuals of P. hexastylos mostly covered the anterior part of the carapace. As epibiont organisms can provide valuable insights into movement patterns, migration routes, geographical distribution as well as the health of sea turtles, the information given here can facilitate the development of strategies for the conservation of these endangered species.