Giant tortoises reintroduced to a Galapagos island
DW.com • • world
Key Points:
- Ecuadorian authorities have released 158 juvenile giant tortoises on Floreana Island, marking the first phase of a plan to reintroduce 700 tortoises to the island nearly 150 years after the species vanished.
- The released tortoises carry 40% to 80% of the genetic makeup of the original Chelonoidis niger species, which disappeared in the 19th century due to invasive mammals, human exploitation, and other factors.
- The tortoises play a crucial ecological role as seed dispersers and vegetation regulators, contributing to habitat regeneration on Floreana Island.
- The release coincides with favorable seasonal rains, but the tortoises will face ongoing challenges from invasive species and coexist
