SANTOS, R. GMARTINS, A. SFARIAS, J. NHORTA, P. APINHEIRO, H. TTOREZANI, EBAPTISTOTTE, CSEMINOFF, J. ABALAZS, G. HWORK, T. M2024-03-012024-03-012011-060025-326Xhttps://bdc.icmbio.gov.br/handle/cecav/2091To show the influence of coastal habitat degradation on the availability of food for green turtles (Chelonia mydas), we assessed the dietary preferences and macroalgae community at a feeding area in a highly urbanized region. The area showed low species richness and was classified as degraded. We examined stomach contents of 15 dead stranded turtles (CCL = 44.0 cm (SD 6.7 cm)). The diet was composed primarily of green algae Ulva spp. (83.6%). In contrast, the macroalgae community was dominated by the green alga Caulerpa mexicana. We found a selection for red algae, seagrass and Ulva spp., and avoidance for C. mexicana and brown alga Dictyopteris delicatula. The low diversity of available food items, possibly a result of environmental degradation, likely contributed to the low dietary diversity. The nutritional implications of this restricted diet are unclear.enCoastalUrbanizationEnvironmentsChelonia mydasEnvironmental degradationDietFeeding preferenceTexto publicado em revista