The Threats of Biodiversity in the Galapagos Islands

The Threats of Biodiversity in the Galapagos Islands

The Threats of Biodiversity in the Galapagos Islands
For hundreds of years the Galapagos Islands have been know as the home to the most unique species of animal and plant species alike. Explorers travel to these islands to conduct research on the unique ecosystems and habitats found on these islands, however, this same characteristic is attracting tourism in the islands, which is threatening the special ecosystems. Population on the islands has surged, as natives of nearby countries have moved in the islands in prospect of opening businesses that supports tourism and creates a lucrative economy. With the surging population also comes the threat of deforestation to make room for the construction of homes and facilities as well as pollution.
The Galapagos Islands are located off the coast of Ecuador and they belong to the country as well. It has been documented that the unique archipelago emerged millions of years ago as the sea water levels decreased in the area. The islands were discovered in 1535 by Bishop Tomas de Berlanga (Galapagos Conservancy, 2008). The islands were annexed by Ecuador in 1832 and the population in the islands started to increase in the 1900’s. The current population in the islands is approximately 28,000. The increasing population is due to the natives who work in the attraction parks and resorts found in the Galapagos Islands. This human interaction threatens the unique biodiversity found in the islands, such as the tortoises, whales, finches, iguanas, and many species of flora.
The scientific importance of the Galapagos Islands was discovered by Charles Darwin when he travelled there in 1835. Darwin was a naturalist; with an inquisitive mind questioning the phenomena found in nature. Darwin studied many plant and animal species while at the Galapagos Islands but his most famous work is the study he did on the finches he found living on the islands. He presented...