Youth engage in citizen science actions
, March 4, 2026
Young people from the Santa Cruz community participated in a citizen science camp at Las Bachas Beach as part of the Guardians of Marine Life project. During the camp, they actively took part in monitoring mangroves and lagoons, learning in the field how key information for the conservation of these ecosystems is generated.
In the mangroves, they conducted snorkeling surveys to identify and record marine biodiversity, including fish, sharks, and schools of fish that use these ecosystems as refuge and nursery areas. Through observation and species monitoring, participants gained a deeper understanding of mangrove ecological dynamics and their importance for ocean health.
In the lagoons, they explored their role as biodiversity “hotspots,” assessing species abundance and identifying possible signals associated with climate change. They also worked in lagoons that had not previously been monitored, generating baseline information about their current condition.
The project is funded by the Galápagos Life Fund (GLF) and implemented by the Galápagos National Park Directorate (DPNG) and Fundación ECOS, strengthening youth capacities for the responsible stewardship of our ecosystems.
