Final answer:
The Green sea turtle is the species known to be located off the Northern Australian coast, particularly within the Great Barrier Reef, playing a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems there.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sea turtle located off the Northern Australian coast is the Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas). This species, along with the Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), the Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), and the Olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), are found in Australian waters. However, the Green sea turtle is particularly known for its presence on the Great Barrier Reef and is one of the most common sea turtles in this region.
Green sea turtles are herbivorous and known for their consumption of seagrasses and algae, which are abundant in the shallow waters of the Northern Australian coast. The presence of these turtles is crucial for maintaining the health of the marine ecosystems, as they help control the growth of seagrass beds and contribute to the nutrient cycle.
The Loggerhead sea turtle mentioned in the context of Figure 6.1 is known for its ability to find the ocean and swim instinctively upon hatching. This is a critical stage in their life cycle, and protection of nesting beaches is important for their conservation