In the heart of the Galapagos Islands, a tiny, unexpected hero emerged in 2002 that would change the course of conservation. The Australian ladybug (Novius cardinalis), small in size but immensely effective, became a crucial ally in the fight against an invasive insect that threatened to devastate the endemic flora of these islands. This is the story of how science, innovation, and nature itself came together to help preserve one of the most valuable biological treasures on the planet.

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Artisanal fishing within the Galápagos Marine Reserve (GMR) is more than just a source of income—it is the livelihood of more than 500 families and an essential part of the islands' culture including hotels, cruise ships, restaurants and feeding local people. Yet, this vital tradition is under increasing pressure from the combined impacts of El Niño and climate change, which threaten marine biodiversity and the local economy. Drawing on insights from the recent scientific publication “An Overview of the Socioecological Impacts of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation and Climate Change on Artisanal Fisheries in the Galápagos”, co-authored by our Principal Investigator Jorge Ramírez, we explore how these threats affect local fisheries and what actions are needed to secure a more sustainable future.

In the heart of the Galapagos Islands, a tiny, unexpected hero emerged in 2002 that would change the course of conservation. The Australian ladybug (Novius cardinalis), small in size but immensely effective, became a crucial ally in the fight against an invasive insect that threatened to devastate the endemic flora of these islands. This is the story of how science, innovation, and nature itself came together to help preserve one of the most valuable biological treasures on the planet.