In 1995, 8D became the most shocking example of tumor explosion in our resident population of green sea turtles. That his tumors could spread so rapidly in both number and magnitude is upsetting. Despite this, he still seemed to be a rather robust turtle. He has not yet exhibited the emaciation that typically comes with the severity of tumors he is forced to suffer. Turtles with this size and number of tumors are highly vulnerable to becoming snagged on nets or tangled in fishing line.
Swimming is also more difficult and the turtle tires easily.
There was a highly interesting development concerning 8D in 1995. This occurred at only one site, the place we call The Rock, and almost always it was 8D that was the focus of the attention of these fish. 8D also became much more tolerant of our presence, allowing us to get a picture that included a representative of each of the six species that we regularly saw cleaning turtles. Summer 1996 Update 8D was not seen in 1996. We believe that 8D is dead.