The Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is closed to the public due to the coronavirus outbreak.
However, CMA is still working hard to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life, including a one-eyed juvenile green sea turtle named "Small Fry" that was released last Thursday, March 19th.
Small Fry was found by a fisherman in New Port Richey back in December of 2019 and had various medical issues upon intake. "Upon intake at CMA's surgical suite, a physical exam was performed and it was found that Small Fry had a mild case of fibropapilloma tumors, a very large tumor on his left eye,” said CMA veterinarian, Dr.Shelly Marquardt.
After Small Fry received the medical help he needed including a procedure to remove his eye impacted by the tumor, the turtle began to show progress and hope for a promising healthy future.
Small Fry was cleared for release by Clearwater Marine Aquarium's veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and is now in his natural habitat once again.
If you want to donate to Clearwater Marine Aquarium and support their mission of rescue, rehab and release, click here or , text “CMA” to 24-365, or donate to @CMAquarium on Venmo.
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In this photo, “Small Fry” is being released at Fred Howard Park in Tarpon Springs on Thursday, March 19, 2020.
Photos: Clearwater Marine Aquarium