Environmental and Economic Impact of Galápagos Fisheries

Abstract

Though the Galápagos Islands are home to a great diversity of species, loss of endemic species threaten the islands. Exploitation of aquatic species may occur due to over-fishing within the Galápagos Islands. An analysis of environmental and economic impact on fish populations was completed by assessing previously published data. Harvesting aquatic species may not only harm the environment but also the economy as well. With the dollar amount that fishermen can earn two challenges are faced: should natural resources be exploited for a short-term economic gain or as a long-term, dependable, source of income.1 Education about the situation may be a way to reduce exploitation and extinction from occurring in the future. This will ultimately save the Galápagos Islands from being stripped of the World Heritage Site classification.