Galapagos Conservancy funds this research, because the answer to the question will help us understand how best we can conserve the Galapagos giant tortoises. How can decision makers decide where to focus their conservation efforts on tortoises when they do not know what species is protected? Many biologists believe that if all tortoises belong to a single species then a few healthy populations in the archipelago are enough to “save the specie”. This is a belief held by many today, and one increasingly shared by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. If, however, every tortoise on every island or volcano represents a distinct species, all of them should be protected, as the Galapagos National Park Directorate, and many conservationists, have long believed.

A team of international scientists published the preliminary results of their investigation in a recent publication. The title foreshadows the key finding, “Whole genome sequencing confirms multiple Galapagos species.” They sequenced the entire genomes of 38 tortoises, including some that were functionally extinct (using DNA from museum specimens). The team found that Galapagos tortoises could be classified into as few as 5 species or as many as 13, depending on how they analyzed the data.

The real picture, however, is much more complex than “one or many” species. Each island and volcano in Galapagos represents a distinct stage in the speciation process, with some taxa more advanced than others. Imagine, for instance, that an Espanola (small, flat and saddle-backed) tortoise and an Alcedo Volcano (large and round and migratory) tortoise have been separated for at least one million years, but are clearly two different species. Some species are still in the process, however, like the tortoises that are scattered over the large and small volcanoes on southern Isabela Island. They’re virtually identical in size, shape and behavior.

This study shows that Galapagos giant tortoises cannot be considered as a single species. To do so is harmful to conservation. This finding provides further foundation and justification for the Government of Ecuador to continue its efforts to protect and restore giant tortoises “islandby-island” and “volcano-by-volcano.” Such an approach aims to save the entire swath of diversity and evolutionary history represented in the giant tortoise dynasty of Galapagos, which together represent the highest concentration of tortoise diversity on Earth.

We celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, honoring their contributions to science and tech, and advocating for increased participation in areas where women have historically been underrepresented. This day is especially important in Galapagos because it highlights the crucial role women play in conservation and scientific exploration in this archipelago.

©Galápagos Conservancy

Diana Loyola is a biologist and researcher who has contributed significantly to the understanding and management of avian pox on Galapagos. Diana’s research with Darwin’s Finches, on Santa Cruz Island funded by a Galapagos Conservancy conservation grant, sheds new light on this viral disease’s impact on local birds. This work is crucial in conserving the unique biodiversity of the archipelago.

Domenica Pinda, who is a Bachelor in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources on the Galapagos Conservancy Team, shows her dedication to conservation of the island through her work. Domenica Pineda’s conservation efforts, which focus on sustainable development and eco-restoration, show her commitment to the field and desire to inspire others. My professional goal is to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable development on Galapagos. I am especially passionate about leading eco-restoration projects in ecosystems where direct and indirect human action has degraded them,” said Domenica.

Diana and Domenica’s inspiring stories, as well as those of other women, demonstrate the importance that women have in science and conservation. Their work on Galapagos is a beacon to promote a sustainable and equitable future where gender equality and diversity will be integrated into scientific and environment efforts. We celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science by honoring the women who shape science and conservation in Galapagos and beyond. They are paving the path for future generations in this important field.