what is the classification of a loggerhead sea turtle
Loggerhead sea turtle Carl Linnaeus gave the loggerhead its first binomial name, Testudo caretta, in 1758.[3][11] Thirty-five other names emerged over the following two centuries, with the combination Caretta caretta first introduced in 1902 by Leonhard Stejneger.[4] The English common name "loggerhead" refers to the animal's large head.[10][69] The loggerhead sea turtle belongs to the family Cheloniidae, which includes all extant sea turtles except the leatherback sea turtle.[70] The subspecific classification of the loggerhead sea turtle is debated, but most authors consider it a single polymorphic species.[71] Molecular genetics has confirmed hybridization of the loggerhead sea turtle with the Kemp's ridley sea turtle, hawksbill sea turtle, and green sea turtles. The extent of natural hybridization is not yet determined; however, second-generation hybrids have been reported, suggesting some hybrids are fertile.[72]
Sea turtle Sea turtles are generally found in the waters over continental shelves. During the first three to five years of life, sea turtles spend most of their time in the pelagic zone floating in seaweed mats. Green sea turtles in particular are often found in Sargassum mats, in which they find shelter and food.[14] Once the sea turtle has reached adulthood it moves closer to the shore.[15] Females will come ashore to lay their eggs on sandy beaches during the nesting season.[16]