We are marking another success story in rescue, rehab, and release this week with Jupiter, a green sea turtle. Jupiter was released to the Gulf on Tuesday at Honeymoon Island after being cleared by CMA’s veterinary team and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Jupiter was brought to CMA after being rescued during a local cold stun event. Upon intake, the veterinary team discovered that Jupiter was also suffering from fibropapilloma, commonly known as “paps.” This viral infection causes cauliflower-like tumors to grow on a turtle’s external soft tissues and internal organs, which can impede their ability to swim, see, and forage.
A Path to Recovery
Jupiter’s rehabilitation plan focused on stabilizing their health following the cold stun before moving forward with specialized care. CMA’s expert veterinary team successfully removed the fibropapilloma tumors and Jupiter was closely monitored for any signs of regrowth. Once the surgical sites were fully healed and Jupiter demonstrated strong swimming and foraging behaviors, she was officially cleared for release.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life. Every successful release provides a second chance for endangered species and contributes to the overall health of our local marine ecosystems.
See Rehabilitation Firsthand
CMA guests have the opportunity to learn about the rescue and rehabilitation process firsthand! While visiting the aquarium, guests can see current patients in our wildlife hospital and learn how they can help protect sea turtles in the wild. For more information on current patients and CMA’s mission, please visit https://mission.cmaquarium.org/what-we-do/rescue-rehab-release/current-hospital-patients/.
All marine turtle footage taken in Florida was obtained with the approval of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) under conditions not harmful to marine turtles. Footage was acquired while conducting authorized conservation activities pursuant to FWC MTP-25/26-172.
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We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization