A new study sheds light on how El Niño events affect the reproductive cycles of marine species, specifically Radsia goodallii, in the Galápagos Islands.
Scientists discovered that temperature changes linked to El Niño significantly influence the Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) of R. goodallii. The GSI is a key indicator of reproductive effort.
This research emphasizes the importance of incorporating climate change considerations into conservation plans for marine life.
The study, conducted on San Cristóbal Island, examined the species' reproductive patterns across different phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). These phases include La Niña, Neutral, and El Niño, each characterized by distinct sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and nutrient levels.
The findings highlight the need for proactive management strategies to protect marine biodiversity in the face of climate change.
Recent conservation efforts, such as Ecuador's debt-for-nature agreement and the Strategic Plan for the Blue Economy, aim to strengthen conservation in the Galápagos Marine Reserve.
These initiatives are vital for ensuring the survival of species like R. goodallii and promoting sustainable resource management.