The effects of dune plant roots on loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) nest success

Sand dunes are supported by the extensive root systems of dune plants that anchor the dune and protect it from erosion. While all plants that grow on the dunes support their structure, invasive plants can outcompete the native and non-native dune plants for resources such as nutrients, sunlight, and space to grow. During the summer, sea turtles lay nests on beaches and near dunes; however, their eggs and hatchlings are at risk of destruction and entrapment by dune plant root penetration. Dune plant roots can penetrate sea turtle nest cavities, thus decreasing hatch success of the eggs and emergence success of the hatchlings. We aimed to determine how plant roots impact threatened loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nests on Casey Key, Sarasota County, Florida, USA and to assess the factors affecting plant root invasion. Specifically, we determined the effect of plant roots on loggerhead sea turtle nest success, the extent of the impact of invasive plants over non-invasive plants on nests, and if the distance from the dune (barrier) affects whether roots will penetrate the nest. From July to August 2022, we excavated 93 nests to determine the extent of root penetration and identify associated plant species. This field campaign was supported by a long-term dataset (1987-2022) on loggerhead sea turtle nesting across the region. We found that root presence decreased hatch success by 21% and emergence success by 18%, compared to nests that lacked roots within the nest chamber. Nests closer to the dune were more likely to have a higher proportion of root damage and lower hatch and emergence success. This study helps advance understanding of how native and non-native plants affect sea turtle reproductive success and helps inform coastal management aimed at conserving threatened loggerhead populations.