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Galapagos giant tortoise argument may threaten conservation efforts

How many distinct species of Galapagos giant tortoises are there? The latest genetic study says at least five, disputing previous work, and the answer could have implications for their conservation

By Carissa Wong

23 April 2023

A pair of Volcan Alcedo Giant Tortoises on Isabela Island in the Galapagos archipelago

Are these Alcedo volcano giant tortoises a subspecies or a distinct species?

Tui De Roy/Minden/naturepl.com

The number of species of Galapagos giant tortoises that exist is in dispute and the result could influence how we conserve these endangered animals.

Researchers have defined 16 populations of giant tortoises (Chelonoidis spp.) spread across the Galapagos islands based on differences in their shell shape, behaviour and genetics. Three of these are now extinct because of hunting, the loss of their habitat for agriculture and the introduction of invasive species, such as goats, which compete for their food. …

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