Giant tortoises, famous worldwide in the Galápagos Islands, are consuming plastic at alarming rates, posing potential risks to these critically endangered species.
The Charles Darwin Foundation reported that a study revealed tortoises in urban areas of Santa Cruz Island, part of Ecuador's Galápagos archipelago, are consuming human-made garbage. This study, published in Environmental Pollution in January, marks the first comprehensive examination of plastic ingestion rates among Galápagos giant tortoises.
Researchers discovered 597 pieces of plastic, glass, metal, and other debris in 5,500 fecal samples from these tortoises, as per Phys.org. In contrast, only two pieces of trash were found in 1,000 samples from tortoises residing in the protected Galápagos National Park.
The Darwin Foundation attributes this disparity to recent population growth and increased tourism, which have heightened human-induced pressures on the archipelago's natural ecosystems. Despite a ban on single-use plastics since 2015, enforcement remains inadequate, according to Phys.org.
The significance of these tortoises stems from their historical role in Charles Darwin's formulation of the theory of evolution. They are descendants of the oldest lineage on the islands, dating back approximately 1.7 million years, as noted by the Galápagos Conservation Trust. With a population of around 3,400 as of 2017, these tortoises can reach sizes of 96.5-115 centimeters (38-45 inches) and can survive up to two days in water holes during the dry season to regulate their body temperatures.
Due to their slow digestive process, lasting up to 28 days, researchers are concerned about the potential impacts of ingested trash on these tortoises. It could physically harm them, obstruct their intestines, or lead to hormonal changes through chemical leaching, cautioned Karina Ramón, the lead author of the study.
Efforts are underway to address the issue of trash ingestion. While the ban on single-use plastics represents a positive step, its enforcement must be strengthened. Ecuador has launched initiatives such as the Young Protectors of Giant Tortoises, aimed at engaging children in cleaning up areas frequented by tortoises and relocating the animals away from urban centers.
Additionally, educational campaigns promoting reusable water bottles and banning single-use plastics in schools are part of broader efforts to safeguard these iconic species and transition towards a cleaner environment, according to the Darwin Foundation.
