Scientists Alert that Strong El Niño and Growing Smuggling Endanger Galápagos Marine Iguanas

Scientists examining the Galápagos islands have sounded an alarm that a strong El Niño episode, together with a sudden rise in illegal wildlife trade, may sharply cut the population of the archipelago's famed marine iguanas.

El Niño, a cyclical warming of Pacific waters, usually raises sea temperatures and shifts currents around the Galápagos. Because marine iguanas rely on kelp and algae clinging to underwater rocks, these oceanic shifts can diminish their food, reduce breeding rates and raise death rates, particularly for young iguanas.

From May onward, customs agents in Ecuador have seized over 48 marine iguanas hidden in cargo traversing the nation. The reptiles were destined for the illicit pet trade and private collectors, a trend officials label a "strange uptick" as it contrasts with the traditionally minimal iguana smuggling historically documented in the area.

Conservation organizations together with the Galápagos National Park are reacting by intensifying patrols, boosting monitoring at major ports, and working with foreign law‑enforcement bodies to map supply routes. Nevertheless, the isolation of many islands and scarce resources continue to hinder thorough oversight.

Researchers warn that if rapid steps are not taken to alleviate climate‑related habitat pressure and halt the illegal trade, the marine iguana may undergo a population crash reminiscent of earlier island extinctions. They urge heightened regional collaboration, greater financing for anti‑smuggling efforts, and faster implementation of climate‑adaptation strategies to protect the species for generations to come.