Galapagos giant tortoise thermoregulation
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Galapagos giant tortoise thermoregulation
Galapagos giant tortoises (Geochelone nigra vandenburghi) gather in volcanically heated thermal pools to keep warm overnight at altitude. The pools are found on the rim of volcano Alcedo on the island of Isabela of the Galapagos archipelago. The photos show them inactive at night and then emerging to forage at sunrise. Local vegetation is poisoned by volcanic minerals in the soil. Alcedo is the site of succesfull efforts to remove invasive introduced species (principally goats) which threaten the stable ecology of the caldera and the tortoises long-term future
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6318813
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cold Blooded Galapagos Giant Tortoise Invasive Species Reptile Thermo Regulation Volcano Alcedo Isabela
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the unique thermoregulation behavior of Galapagos giant tortoises on the island of Isabela. These magnificent creatures, known as Geochelone nigra vandenburghi, gather in volcanically heated thermal pools to keep warm overnight at high altitudes. The volcanic minerals present in the soil poison local vegetation, making these thermal pools a vital resource for their survival. Taken on the rim of volcano Alcedo, this image showcases these cold-blooded reptiles in their inactive state during the night. As dawn breaks and sunlight bathes the landscape, they emerge from their resting places to begin foraging for food. It is truly a sight to behold as these gentle giants navigate through an environment that has been carefully preserved. The significance of Alcedo extends beyond its role as a natural habitat for these giant tortoises. This site has witnessed successful efforts to remove invasive species such as goats which posed a threat to both the caldera's stable ecology and long-term future of these iconic reptiles. Photographer Paul D. Stewart beautifully captures not only the stunning beauty of this scene but also highlights important scientific concepts like endothermy and thermo regulation. This mesmerizing image serves as a reminder of nature's delicate balance and our responsibility to protect it for generations to come.
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