Beliefs and perceptions associated with sea turtle products in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

The conservation of biological species is known to be intimately linked to cultural aspects. The motivations for the consumption, veneration, or rejection of certain species are often rooted in beliefs and traditions of local people. Sea turtles have a particularly long history of use in Hispaniola, the island currently shared between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Before the arrival of the Europeans, sea turtles were a prominent element in the native Taíno culture. The use of sea turtles has continued to this day in the Dominican Republic, particularly of hawksbill turtles, which are utilized for their meat, eggs, shell, and other products. Preliminary information revealed that certain sectors of Dominican society attributed medicinal and magical powers to sea turtle parts and products. The objective of the present study was to go beyond the mere documentation of trade by attempting to understand the motivations and beliefs held by locals and foreign tourists that are responsible for sea turtle demand, particularly that of hawksbill products.