NEWS & EVENTS
LATEST NEWS
The effect of “El Niño” on marine iguanas: A study to understand its impact
Captain Darwin is an NGO dedicated to documenting environmental and biodiversity changes in the places visited by world-famous naturalist Charles Darwin during his voyage on the HMS Beagle 189 years ago. This NGO provides logistical support, through the use of its vessel, to local researchers at each stop on Darwin’s historic voyage.
2024 Christmas Newsletter and Annual Impact Report
This year, we celebrate 13 years of impactful work in conservation, research, and sustainable development in the Galápagos Islands. In our newsletter and annual impact report, we invite you to explore how we have contributed to preserving this natural heritage through scientific expeditions, innovative digital tools, and health and education programs. Explore the latest advancements, scientific findings, and inspiring stories from 2024 Don’t miss out—join us on our journey toward a more sustainable Galápagos!
Galapagos Day: Inspiring Research and Engagement
UNC Center for Galapagos Studies and the Galapagos Science Center recently hosted its first Galapagos Day on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus titled Galapagos Day: Building Healthy Ecosystems on a Changing Planet. This event successfully brought together global researchers, students, and staff from UNC-Chapel Hill (UNC), the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), NC State University, and the Galapagos Science Center to share about their impactful work in Galapagos and relevant opportunities for collaboration, training, outreach, and student engagement moving forward.
UNC Center for Galapagos Studies receives support from Royal Caribbean Group to enhance local programs and student experiences
The UNC Center for Galapagos Studies has received a $600,000 contribution from Royal Caribbean Group to support research and learning initiatives, enabling the expansion of research projects, community outreach programs and student engagement. The UNC Center for Galapagos Studies partners with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) to operate the Galapagos Science Center, located on San Cristobal Island. It is the only university science facility of its kind in the archipelago.
SCIENTIFIC ARTICLES
Assessing economic losses in artisanal fisheries from marine plastic pollution in coastal Ecuador and Peru
This study reveals that the artisanal fishing sector along the coastal regions of Ecuador (excluding Galapagos) and Peru faces significant economic losses due to the considerable presence of marine plastic debris which directly impacts productivity.
Nutrient enrichment can increase the thermal performance of Galápagos seaweeds
This study, published in Marine Ecology Progress Series, examines how nutrient availability can help marine macroalgae in the Galápagos Islands better adapt to higher temperatures—a challenge they face due to climate change. Macroalgae are essential aquatic plants for marine ecosystems as they provide food and shelter for many species. However, their ability to survive and thrive largely depends on environmental conditions, such as the amount of nutrients in the water.
Ladybird Beetle Diversity in Natural and Human-Modified Habitats in the San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos, Ecuador
This study investigates the diversity of ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae) on San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos Archipelago. Researchers recorded 19 species, including four previously documented (two endemic and two native) and nine potentially native species reported for the first time. Endemic species, such as Psyllobora bisigma and Scymnobius scalesius, were rare and confined to native forests, while native species like Cycloneda sanguinea showed adaptability to various habitats, including urban and agricultural areas.
Assessing the chemical landscape of the Galápagos Marine Reserve
The Galápagos Marine Reserve (GMR), famous for its incredible biodiversity, faces growing threats from chemical pollution like plastics, oils, pesticides, and heavy metals. The unique location of the Galápagos, where major ocean currents meet under intense sunlight, allows pollutants to flow in and spread.
EVENTS
6TH GALAPAGOS RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION SYMPOSIUM
The 6th Galápagos Research and Conservation Symposium took place on Monday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at the Charles Darwin Convention Center on San Cristóbal, Galápagos. This important multidisciplinary event was organized by the Galapagos Science Center, with the sponsorship of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Universidad San Francisco de Quito with the endorsement of the Galapagos National Park.
5TH GALAPAGOS RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION SYMPOSIUM
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on San Cristóbal Island, will host the 5th Galapagos Research and Conservation Symposium. This significant multidisciplinary event will feature scientific presentations and community-focused talks, showcasing research and initiatives related to conservation, environmental change, biodiversity and oceans, health, and community initiatives.
World Summit on Island Sustainability
In 2022, the Galapagos Science Center (GSC) and the broader UNC & USFQ Galapagos Initiative celebrated its 10th Anniversary. The GSC hosted the World Summit on Island Sustainability on June 26–30, 2022 at the Galapagos Science Center and the Community Convention Center on San Cristobal Island.
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