3D Printing Gives Sea Turtles a Fighting Chance Against “Bubble Butt Syndrome”
Sea turtles can often survive boat propeller strikes, but the resulting trauma frequently alters their shells, leading to a condition nicknamed “bubble butt syndrome.” This buoyancy disorder, caused by trapped air within their bodies, makes swimming difficult and can leave turtles unable to dive, placing them at greater risk of starvation, further injuries, or predator attacks.
One such turtle, a male named Charlotte, is now swimming with newfound ease at Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, thanks to an innovative 3D-printed harness. After years of development, engineers created a harness that snaps securely into place and helps balance Charlotte’s buoyancy. “Charlotte loved it,” says Alex Pestana, a sales engineer at Formlabs, the 3D printing company behind the project.
This initiative has the potential to change the future for turtles like Charlotte. Engineers hope to create an adjustable template for harnesses that can accommodate other turtles, providing a scalable solution for this debilitating condition.
Bubble Butt: A Common Threat
First documented in 1989 at The Turtle Hospital in Florida, bubble butt syndrome results from propeller strikes that damage a turtle’s spinal cord, disrupting the gastrointestinal system. Gas trapped in the intestines causes the turtle to float abnormally, making it harder to reach food and increasing vulnerability to future boat collisions.
Previously, temporary solutions involved attaching lead weights to turtles’ shells. However, these weights often fall off as turtles grow and shed their scutes. While effective, this approach lacked the durability and adaptability offered by modern 3D-printed designs.
Pioneering Solutions for a Persistent Problem
Charlotte’s harness, developed by Formlabs, Adia, and New Balance, marks a breakthrough. Using a 3D scan of Charlotte’s shell, the team designed a custom harness made from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic. The material provided both durability and flexibility, crucial for withstanding wear and ensuring comfort.
This success has sparked interest from other aquariums, and the team now seeks volunteers with CAD expertise to translate the design into an adaptable template for future turtles in need.
Addressing the Root Cause
The Turtle Hospital in Florida currently cares for about 15 non-releasable turtles with bubble butt syndrome, using them as ambassadors to raise public awareness about boat strikes. Boaters are encouraged to use polarized sunglasses, follow speed restrictions in shallow waters, and designate spotters to help avoid collisions with marine life.
By combining cutting-edge technology with public education, efforts to mitigate the effects of boat strikes are gaining momentum, offering hope for sea turtles navigating increasingly dangerous waters.