Giant tortoises, globally renowned in the Galápagos Islands, are consuming plastic at alarming rates, posing significant risks to these critically endangered creatures.
According to the Charles Darwin Foundation, a study has revealed that tortoises in urban areas of Santa Cruz Island, part of Ecuador's Galápagos archipelago, are ingesting human-made garbage. Published in Environmental Pollution in January, this study marks the first extensive investigation into plastic ingestion rates among Galápagos giant tortoises.
Researchers found 597 pieces of plastic, glass, metal, and other debris in 5,500 fecal samples from these tortoises, contrasting sharply with only two pieces of trash found in 1,000 samples from tortoises living in the protected Galápagos National Park, as reported by Phys.org.
The Darwin Foundation attributes this disparity to recent population growth and increased tourism, which have intensified human impacts on the archipelago's natural ecosystems. Despite a ban on single-use plastics since 2015, enforcement remains inadequate, according to Phys.org.
These tortoises hold historical significance due to their role in Charles Darwin's development of the theory of evolution. Descendants of the oldest lineage on the islands, dating back approximately 1.7 million years, they number around 3,400 as of 2017, growing up to 96.5-115 centimeters (38-45 inches) in size and surviving up to two days in water holes during the dry season to regulate body temperature, as noted by the Galápagos Conservation Trust.
Because of their slow digestive process, lasting up to 28 days, researchers are concerned about the potential impacts of ingested trash. It could physically harm them, cause intestinal blockages, or lead to hormonal changes due to chemical leaching, cautioned Karina Ramón, the study's lead author.
Efforts are underway to address the issue of trash ingestion, including strengthening enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics. Ecuador has launched initiatives such as the Young Protectors of Giant Tortoises, which involve children in cleaning areas frequented by tortoises and relocating the animals away from urban centers.
Moreover, educational campaigns promoting reusable water bottles and banning single-use plastics in schools are part of broader efforts to protect these iconic species and promote a cleaner environment, according to the Darwin Foundation.
