How a single ocean current creates two distinct worlds
In short: The Galapagos Islands are defined by a dramatic duality: barren volcanic landscapes and lush tropical rainforests. This video explores how the seasonal flow of cold ocean currents creates these contrasting environments and the unique wildlife that thrives in each.
During the garua season, which runs from June to November, cold ocean currents flow toward the islands, lifting warm air to create daily foggy rain. This weather creates a paradox: while some regions become more barren, high-altitude wetlands transform into dense, rainforest-like environments.
The islands are home to the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise, which can weigh up to 250kg. Early explorers named the species after the islands because the tortoises' shells resembled horse saddles.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Sea of Chaos | Galapagos: The Edge of the World 2/3 | Go Wild
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