For centuries, turtles have been important food items in China. Even today, food markets throughout China and areas with Chinese immigrants sell turtles and terrapins. Tragically, overcollection to provide turtles for the markets threatens many species. The eggs and meat from sea turtles are also consumed by humans. Considered aphrodisiacs in Mexico and Latin America, the eggs of many endangered sea turtles are still collected by poachers.
Turtles also have an important place in human mythology, religion, and folk medicine.
In Europe, stories such as The Tortoise and the Hare credit turtles with determination and persistance. Folk tales relate the legendary longevity of turtles. The ancient Chinese believed that a turtle named Kwei created the universe and determined China's fate. The Chinese Book of Rites labeled the turtle as one of the four benevolent spirit animals. Turtles were regarded as symbols of righteousness.