The leatherback was named this due to a layer of hard rubbery skin along its back, this is supported by many bone plates. The scientific name of the turtle is a Dermochelys Coriacea. The type of species is the only one in the world, which doesnt have a hard-shell. This can comes as a disadvantage for protection and defence. The Turtle has many distinguished features compared to other species of turtles; this includes its flexible carapace which is the fleshy shell of the turtle. The turtle has 7 ridges which run along its back. The turtle doesnt have scales except when it is born. The leatherback turtle has large flippers which boost the turtles speeds in the water and help it to swim, however the turtle doesnt have claws. The Carpace is grey or black has various white spots, the animal ranges from 4 6 feet and weighs from 300 400 kg, the turtle can live up to 45 yrs old. The habitat of the
turtle is found in coastal areas in central eastern Australia this extends from the sunshine coast, New south Wales, South East Australia, Tasmania eastern South Australia and in western parts on the coast of western parts of south west Australia. The turtle has the widest distribution of all of the species of marine turtles. Most of the turtles habitat however is mostly focused off the Queensland and New South wales coast. The turtles are usually found in larger bays as a group, they nest on the sand of the beach from February to march., they can also be found seen in estuaries and rivers It is harder to see them out at sea as they can go up to a depth of 1280. Metres. And can stay under for up to 85minutes. The habitat has had been stable however the turtles have to re locate sometimes due to coastal developments which are implemented. This is the only pressure that they suffer or pressure.