FIRE FROM ERUPTION THREATENS RARE SCALESIA FOREST
A fire from the Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela island, which erupted on the 22 October, is reported to be threatening a unique forest in Galapagos.
According to the Geographic Institute of the National Polytechnic (IGM), which has been monitoring the eruption, the flow of lava stopped about ten days ago, however staff from the Galapagos National Park have reported a fire on the west flank of the volcano which threatens the rare Scalesia cordata tree.
There are only about 400 adult specimens of this tree remaining and Washington Tapia, the Director of the Galapagos National Park, said they were currently in danger from the fire. "This is the greatest population of the species and the only one capable of reproducing in the future", he added.
Twenty-five Park staff have dug a trench in an attempt to ward off the flames, and a helicopter from the Isabela Project has been assisting in bringing water to the affected area. Staff are camping near the site and will remain until the trees are no longer in danger.
The Minister for the Environment, Ana Albán, has appealed to the Ecuadorian President to declare a state of emergency for the area, which would provide much needed additional funds to fight the fire.
..Top
|
