A stronger-than-usual El Niño weather pattern has raised concerns among scientists in Ecuador, particularly regarding its possible effects on the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos, an archipelago of more than 230 islands situated about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the Ecuadorian coast, is known for its unique biodiversity. Only four of these islands are inhabited. El Niño, a climate phenomenon marked by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures and heavy rainfall in the equatorial Pacific, is expected to be 2.2 degrees Celsius (4°F) above normal, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This would classify it as a "very strong" El Niño, as an increase of 2 degrees Celsius (3.6°F) or more is considered such. Scientists are worried that the rise in sea temperatures could disrupt the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem. Warmer waters could lead to the decline of plankton, algae, and small fish, which are critical food sources for many larger marine animals. This could threaten several iconic species in the Galápagos, including Galápagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, petrels, flightless cormorants, albatrosses, and sea lions. Coral reefs and tuna fishing industries might also be significantly impacted. If the El Niño reaches the predicted intensity, the number of vertebrates—animals with backbones—on the islands could drop by at least 20% this year. Galápagos penguins, one of the most closely watched species in the archipelago, are often used as an indicator of environmental changes. After the 1998 El Niño, their population dropped from 1,300 to just 400 individuals. This highlights the vulnerability of the islands’ wildlife to such climate events. In response, scientists are working on a conservation plan that includes removing invasive plants, collecting seeds, and establishing nurseries to protect endangered species. The Ecuadorian government, along with various foundations and non-governmental organizations, is participating in these efforts to safeguard the islands’ biodiversity. The Galápagos Islands were designated a Natural World Heritage Site in 1978 due to their extraordinary collection of unique animal and plant species. These islands played a pivotal role in the development of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, as he visited them during his scientific voyage in the 19th century. The current El Niño event poses a serious threat to the ecological integrity of this globally significant region, prompting urgent conservation efforts to mitigate its impact.