Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/C510667/1

Restoring native biological diversity in the Galapagos Islands: determination of baseline ecological conditions.

Principal Investigator:: Professor K Willis, University of Oxford, Geography - SoGE
Grant held at:: University of Oxford, Geography - SoGE

Abstract:: The Galapagos Islands are a National Park, UNESCO World Heritage site and a Biosphere Reserve. They are globally renowned both for their ecological value and as a world symbol of scientific discovery. The archipelago has been described as a 'showcase for evolution' (Kramer 1980), where the concepts of speciation and adaptive radiation may be directly observed. However this unique area also has some of the highest extinction rates in the world with extensive habitat degradation and widespread impact from introduced species. The Islands therefore present one of the most promising yet challenging opportunities for the conservation and restoration of native biological diversity. Critical to the design of an effective restoration program is the development of baseline data to understand ecological conditions and processes that existed in the Galapagos islands before the arrival of humans. This project will combine the analysis of fossil pollen, charcoal, and plant macrofossils in sedimentary records with archaeological evidence to reconstruct the long-term impact of natural disturbance and human presence on the native plant communities in Galapagos. It aims to provide long-term, historical baseline data - information that has immediate applicability to both the conservation and restoration of native biodiversity in Galapagos.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £243,151

Total - Staff	Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs	Total - Equipment	Total - Indirect Costs
£138,268	£15,828	£18,454	£7,000	£63,603

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