The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique and endemic species, are facing a delicate balancing act between tourism and conservation. While the islands are celebrated for their iconic giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, the growing pressures of human activity are threatening their fragile ecosystem.
Biologist Carolina Proaño, working in the humid highlands, is dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Galapagos petrel, a seabird that nests in the ground. She has established a protected area on her family farm on Santa Cruz Island, using various methods to attract the petrels, including playing recordings of their calls. However, her efforts have been met with a tragic setback. Proaño recently discovered two adult petrels dead near their nests, victims of stray dogs – a growing problem introduced by humans.
This incident underscores the broader issue of invasive species, a serious threat to the islands’ native wildlife. Pets like dogs and cats, often abandoned, prey on birds and their eggs. In addition, unintentional introductions of insects and parasites via cargo ships have further complicated the islands’ biosecurity.
The parasitic fly *Philornis downsi* has had a devastating impact on local bird populations, laying eggs in nests and threatening already endangered species like the mangrove finch. Other invasive insects, such as fire ants and wasps, have also become problematic.
The influx of people and goods has not only introduced new species but has also led to environmental degradation. Ineffective waste and water management systems have resulted in contaminated water being dumped into the sea and landfills overflowing with garbage. Overfishing has further strained the marine ecosystem, with species like sea cucumbers and lobsters being overharvested due to their high market value.
Despite these challenges, there is potential for improvement. Experts like Alex Hearn from Quito’s Universidad San Francisco suggest better management of Galapagos fisheries could help fishers achieve higher prices for their products without resorting to harmful practices like longlining. This could involve using ecologically friendly methods and selling responsibly caught fish locally.
However, the response from local and national authorities has been mixed. The Charles Darwin Foundation and other key organizations have declined to comment on the growing pressures facing the islands, leaving many conservation efforts in limbo.
While some experts, like retired biology professor Gunter Reck, believe that the Galapagos ecosystems have remained resilient despite decades of pressure, they also acknowledge the need for continued conservation efforts. Reck argues that corrective measures have successfully rescued several species, but the situation requires ongoing attention.
The local community also faces economic challenges, particularly those dependent on tourism. After a record year in 2023, tourism has declined in 2024 due to concerns about rising violence in mainland Ecuador. This decline has had a ripple effect on the island’s economy, affecting everyone from independent guides to farmers.
To address these issues, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa recently announced an increase in entrance fees for the Galapagos, with international tourists now paying $200. However, local residents like naturalist Ramiro Adrian are skeptical about where this additional revenue will go, fearing it may not benefit the community as much as it should.
While the Galapagos Islands remain a symbol of conservation success, the growing pressures from tourism, population growth, and invasive species pose significant threats to their delicate ecosystems. Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort from both local communities and international organizations to ensure the islands’ unique biodiversity is preserved for future generations.
