GREEN TURTLE, a large turtle found in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The green turtle,
Chelonia mydas, may weigh as much as 500 pounds but the usual weight of market specimens is from 50 to 175 pounds. Its upper shell is a pale olive color with marbleized yellow markings; the popular name is derived from the green color of the fat. Since the under shell of this reptile is pliable, it must be turned on its back when removed from the ocean for the great weight of the turtle causes the under shell to press against the lungs, resulting in a quick death. Green turtles are highly prized for soup.
