Study reveals urgent need for large scale invasive species management to prevent extinction of endemic forest in the Galapagos Islands

The Eastern Tropical Pacific conceals extraordinary, vast deep-ocean ecosystems, plunging from oceanic islands to depths of 3,800 meter, most of which remain largely unexplored, presenting real challenges for effective protection and management. Despite their significance, these ecosystems are poorly understood and subject to persistent threats, including overfishing, climate change, pollution, and the prospect for deep-sea mining.

A new international research initiative is investigating how climate change could reshape the Galápagos cloud forests by altering the iconic garúa fog. Discover how scientists will study water, biodiversity, and invasive species to generate the knowledge needed to protect the archipelago’s unique ecosystems and freshwater resources for future generations.

After nearly 70 years, the Opuntia echios cactus is naturally regenerating on Plaza Sur. This milestone marks a triumph for the Galápagos Verde 2050 program’s decade-long restoration efforts. Discover how science, teamwork, and innovation are helping revive a fragile island ecosystem—one cactus at a time. Read the full story.