Galapagos

Galapagos is a group of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The islands are part of the Republic of Ecuador.

Geography

The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 906 km (563 mi) west of continental Ecuador. The archipelago consists of 18 main islands, 3 smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets. The largest of the islands, Isabela, measures 4,640 square km (1,790 sq mi) and makes up half of the total land area of the Galapagos.

Biodiversity

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their unique biodiversity. The islands are home to a large number of endemic species that have evolved in isolation, including the Galapagos tortoise, the Marine Iguana, and various species of finch. The islands' unique ecological conditions have been the subject of study by scientists from around the world, including the naturalist Charles Darwin, whose observations on the islands contributed to the development of his theory of evolution by natural selection.

Conservation

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are managed by the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Conservation efforts on the islands focus on preserving the unique ecosystems and preventing the introduction of invasive species.

Tourism

Tourism is a major industry in the Galapagos Islands, with visitors coming to see the unique wildlife and landscapes. However, tourism also presents challenges to conservation efforts, and measures are in place to limit the impact of visitors on the islands' ecosystems.

See also

• Ecuador
• Charles Darwin
• Evolution
• Galapagos National Park
• Galapagos Marine Reserve

Galapagos Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia