Whilst invasive species are considered the principal threat to the unique flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands, little is known about the impact of introduced invertebrates on Galapagos invertebrate populations.
Presently, almost 480 introduced invertebrate species are known in Galapagos, representing about a quarter of the total invertebrate fauna. At least five invasive species have posed a serious threat to Galapagos ecosystems, including two fire ants, two wasp species, and a scale insect. CDF scientists suggest that an additional 50+ alien invertebrate species may become invasive in the near future.
© CDF The invasive wasp Polistes versicolorThese introduced invertebrates compete with native invertebrates within their ecosystems, are predators of invertebrates and vertebrates, feed on native plants, are vectors of animal and human diseases and may cause severe, painful bites.
Scientists at the Charles Darwin Research Station aim to protect native flora and fauna by controlling introduced species. Activities include conducting surveys of invertebrates in the archipelago in order to learn more about the indigenous and introduced species. Determining which introduced species have an impact on the endemic flora and fauna also allows the CDF to determine when a species has recently arrived and respond rapidly to eradicate it.
CDF Fact sheets on introduced invertebrates in Galapagos
Cottony cushion scale insect and Australian ladybug
Fire ants