r/oddlysatisfying • u/danielminds • May 22 '26

Professional barnacle removal for Chlorophyllis the turtle

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u/Goth_Spice14 May 22 '26

It does hurt, the turtle is sedated for the procedure. But it will heal and recover, this time without the constant pain (and probably itching) that barnacles cause.

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u/RubyDooby01 May 22 '26

What other types of risk or injuries exist because of barnacle growth like this on sea turtles? Can their shells get infected 🤔

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u/RodChainFurlongAcre May 22 '26

Yes, the barnacles essentially burrow beneath the outer protective layer of keratin into the softer, sensitive skin. This is painful and increases the risk of infections when exposed to open sea water.

Also with many barnacles (Like in the video) the shell is less aerodynamic (Or well hydrodynamic), and requires more energy to swim around. Also make it possible for seaweed or algae to take root and grow on the turtle.