The deep ocean of the Eastern Tropical Pacific hosts unique ecosystems, including seamounts, deep reefs, and abyssal habitats. These environments support remarkable biodiversity, regulate climate, and connect migratory species. Scientific research is essential to discover new species, understand ecological processes, and strengthen conservation against growing environmental threats.

The introduction of alien species is arguably the most important driver of biodiversity loss for oceanic islands. Our work seeks to evaluate the effects of alien invasive species, climate change, and other anthropogenic pressures on the biodiversity of the Galapagos Marine Reserve and the Eastern Tropical Pacific in order to better sustain coastal communities and prevent marine species extinction.

For the first time in Galápagos, researchers established 24 mesocosms that simulate natural ponds to study freshwater ecosystems. The experiment examines how nutrients provided by giant tortoises can alter water conditions and how these changes relate to the development of tadpoles of the archipelago’s only introduced tree frog Scinax quinquefasciatus.

Planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands? Here are our top travel tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable and responsible journey to this unique destination.

Imagine being able to peek into the past and witness how the underwater world of Galapagos has changed over time. Now you can, thansk to more than 20 years of biodiversity data collected by Charles Darwin Foundation scientists made available online.

The Charles Darwin Foundation reveals its new mission and launches its 2022 Impact Report during its 52nd General Assembly

Explore the first Atlas of Native and Invasives Species of the Galapagos Islands.

Celebrating seven years of the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund

This International Women’s Day, discover how an equity lens is shaping conservation in the Galápagos. From the legacy of pioneering women in science to new research on gender roles in fisheries, the Charles Darwin Foundation highlights why inclusive leadership and gender equity are essential for stronger communities and more effective conservation.

A tiny blue octopus discovered nearly 6,000 feet beneath the waters of Galápagos is rewriting what scientists know about deep-sea life. From a chance encounter during an underwater expedition to cutting-edge CT scans revealing a species never seen before, this remarkable discovery highlights the mysteries still hidden in Earth’s oceans.

Explore the Galapagos Islands' volcanic beginnings, unique biodiversity, and the global conservation efforts led by the Charles Darwin Foundation to protect them.