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Galapagos

All articles tagged with #galapagos

science6 months ago

Galápagos Tomatoes Undergo Silent De-Evolution

Scientists studying wild tomatoes in the Galápagos Islands have observed a rare case of reverse evolution, where the plants are reverting to an ancient chemical state by producing alkaloids similar to those found in eggplants, likely driven by environmental factors on younger islands. This discovery challenges traditional views of evolution as a one-way process and suggests that traits can re-emerge through genetic changes, with potential implications for agriculture and medicine.

natural-disasters1 year ago

"Uninhabited Galapagos Island Volcano Erupts, Lava Flows to Sea"

The La Cumbre volcano on Fernandina island in the Galapagos has erupted, sending lava flowing down its sides toward the sea. While posing no risk to humans, the eruption threatens the island's unique wildlife, including iguanas, penguins, and flightless cormorants. The Galapagos Islands are famous for their role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

science2 years ago

"Unlikely Encounters: Kelp in Galapagos, Polar Bears in Bahamas"

Marine scientist Salomé Buglass made a surprising discovery of a kelp forest thriving in deep, tropical waters in the Galapagos. Kelp usually grows in cooler waters and requires light to survive, making this find unusual. The kelp forest provides habitat for various species and stores carbon, making it important for biodiversity and climate change. Researchers believe it may be a new species or a relic from a colder past, and further genetic sequencing is needed to confirm.

environment2 years ago

Pristine Coral Reef Discovered in Deep-Sea Galapagos

Scientists exploring a previously unexplored part of the Galápagos marine reserve have discovered deep-sea coral reefs in pristine condition, raising hopes that healthy reefs can still thrive despite coral being in crisis due to record sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification. The discovery shows the effectiveness of conservation actions and effective management. The newly discovered reefs are potentially of global significance and could help scientists reconstruct past ocean environments to understand modern climate change. Ecuador is collaborating with its northern neighbours on a regional marine corridor initiative to protect and responsibly manage the ocean.