Galápagos Marine Reserve
The Galápagos Marine Reserve, spanning 143,000 square kilometers, is one of the largest marine protected areas in the world and a top diving destination globally. Extending 40 miles from the islands, this zone conserves a vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem. Established in 1998 through the Organic Law of Special Regime for the Conservation and Sustainable Development of Galápagos, it marked a major milestone in marine resource protection. In 2001, UNESCO designated it as a World Natural Heritage Site, signifying its ecological and cultural importance.
Within the Galápagos Marine Reserve, over 2,900 species thrive, including the Galápagos penguin, marine iguanas, and various species of sea turtles. About 25% of these species are endemic, underscoring the reserve’s uniqueness. Whale sharks visit these waters during breeding season, and several hammerhead shark species contribute to the ecosystem’s delicate balance, together showcasing the remarkable diversity of marine life here.
Hermandad Marine Reserve
The Hermandad Marine Reserve, established on January 14, 2022, covers 60,000 square kilometers and forms a crucial marine corridor linking Galápagos with Costa Rica’s Cocos Island. This protected route is essential for the migration of threatened species, including sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles. An innovative financial means, a debt-for-nature swap, generates funds for ongoing conservation and sustainable management of this area.
Why Protecting Marine Reserves Matters
The Galápagos Marine Reserves are critical for conserving biodiversity and sustaining ocean health. These areas serve as sanctuaries for unique and endemic species, playing a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Protecting these habitats also supports the livelihoods of local communities that rely on marine resources and encourages responsible tourism. By safeguarding these reserves, we contribute to the global goal of protecting at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030, helping to ensure a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations.
What we are Doing
SHARK CONSERVATION IN GALÁPAGOS
We are collaborating with the Galápagos National Park Directorate on an important shark research project led by park ranger Eduardo Espinoza. This program focuses on studying the behavior and migratory patterns of key species, including the critically declining hammerhead shark. The research is vital for developing effective conservation strategies to protect these marine predators, which play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Protecting sharks not only benefits biodiversity but also supports tourism, which is essential for the local economy. Our commitment is to build a sustainable future for both the communities and marine life in Galápagos.
PINNIPED POPULATION STATUS
We fund research led by Dr. Diego Páez from Universidad San Francisco de Quito to assess the population status of Galápagos sea lions and fur seals, which are endangered endemic species. This study, involving experts from various institutions, examines the health of these species and their response to environmental changes. By monitoring their behavioral patterns, the project aims to understand the impacts of climate change on their ecosystem. This research not only helps in the conservation of these marine mammals but also provides valuable insights for managing the Galápagos Marine Reserve, ensuring a sustainable future for these iconic species.
CORAL CONSERVATION COMMITMENT
We support a project led by the Galápagos National Park Directorate that focuses on protecting vulnerable coral ecosystems within the Marine Reserve. Despite challenges posed by climate change, significant progress has been made, thanks to the efforts of park rangers and community volunteers. Research conducted on the reefs of Española, Floreana, and Santa Cruz Islands has revealed impressive resilience among certain coral species, which have adapted to harsh environmental conditions. Through monitoring and restoration activities at the Bahia Academia nursery, we cultivate coral fragments for future restoration efforts. This initiative is vital for ensuring a sustainable future for coral reefs, which are essential for marine health and biodiversity in Galápagos.
