The Galapagos Islands are a haven of biodiversity. They contain many species that can be found nowhere else in the world. These animals, from the majestic giant turtles to rare iguanas found on Wolf Volcano have evolved in isolation. In the 10,000 years before humans arrived on the Galapagos, only one new species was naturally found there. Since the discovery of the Galapagos Islands, humans have brought in an average of 1 new species per year.
Galapagos island endemics are extremely vulnerable to invasive species, as they have evolved in isolation and with very few natural predators. They are therefore not well-adapted to withstand new threats. The introduction of these species is a threat to the survival of many native species of wildlife.
Galapagos Conservation recognizes that controlling invasive plants is one of the top conservation priorities in the islands. Since more than a century, we’ve worked closely with Galapagos Biosecurity Agency as well as Galapagos National Park Directorate in order to reduce the impact of invasive plants and animals on the native flora.
Galapagos Islands Threatened by Invasive Species
Invasive species, from goats which have destroyed giant tortoise habitats, to fire ants or feral cats that are destroying native wildlife pose a serious threat to Galapagos’ fragile ecosystems. Prevention, monitoring and control are essential as new threats continue to appear.
Goats (Capra hircus): Ecosystem Destruction
In the 1800s, goats were introduced and multiplied uncontrollably. They stripped native vegetation, reducing food sources for giant tortoises. The impact was so severe on some islands like Pinta or Santiago that entire tortoise population were almost wiped out. The Galapagos National Park Directorate has successfully eradicated goats, and the vegetation is now recovering. This allows tortoises a chance to reclaim its natural habitat.
Fire Ants ( Wasmannia Auropunctata ): the Silent Enemy
The eradication of these tiny, aggressive fireants is notoriously hard. They attack nestling birds and hatchling tortoises. Galapagos Conservancy, in order to address this threat has supported Galapagos Biosecurity Agency’s efforts to reduce fire ant impacts native wildlife.
The Pink Iguana is threatened by feral cats ( Felis Catus).
Wild cats are a threat to many endemic species. This includes the pink iguana, one of the rarest and most endangered reptiles in the world, which is found only at Wolf Volcano. This iguana was discovered in 2009. It is now on the verge of extinction because cats have been introduced and are preying on its young. Galapagos Conservancy has launched focused efforts to protect pink iguanas against cats.
©DPNG
The Invasive Blackberry ( Ruby niveus ): A Growing Problem
The invasive blackberry, originally an agricultural experiment but now a major ecological threat, was introduced as a result of an agricultural experiment. This aggressive plant is destroying native vegetation on multiple islands. Its rapid growth hinders forest regeneration, and reduces food supply for native species. The blackberry also creates a physical obstacle for giant tortoises to move about their habitat. It is crucial to control the spread of blackberry in order to preserve the Galapagos’ unique landscapes.
Galapagos: Our role in protecting it
Galapagos Conservancy, since 2015, has supported the Galapagos Biosecurity Agency, with a focus on prevention, control and eradication. In addition to improving laboratory capabilities, we have also worked on a rapid response for new biosecurity threats. We aim to reduce the impact of invasive plants and animals by strengthening the prevention and control of these species.
The fight against invasive species requires the collaboration of conservation groups, local communities, and scientists.
Galapagos Conservancy plays a critical role in supporting and amplifying conservation efforts. We work with partners to protect native ecosystems by taking the following important actions:
- Funding projects that restore native habitats to species threatened by invasive threats.
- Collaboration with local institutions in order to detect, prevent and control invasive species such as the African giant snail and fire ants.
- By managing habitats in order to reduce the impact of invasive species, we can protect iconic species such as land iguanas and giant tortoises. Research and monitoring will be improved to better understand the impacts of invasive species and to support effective management strategies.
©DPNG
Together, we can make a difference
Galapagos’ future is not certain, but we can make sure that it continues to inspire, and flourish, for future generations, with your help.
Your involvement can protect this unique ecosystem. You can help restore island habitats by joining the fight against invasive weeds.
Join us to protect one of Earth’s last natural wonders.
©Galápagos Conservancy
