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Management strategies and conservation status of Galapagos sea lion populations at San Cristobal Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Abstract:

In recent years, public opinion, scientists and environmental groups have played an important role in the environmental and marine policies of all countries. The relevance of marine mammals in general and pinnipeds in particular is not merely based on their biological and economic importance, but also on their role as “charismatic species” (Kovacs et al. 2012). This designation has a far-reaching social impact, manifested in the management, which has been granted to their populations. On this basis, the Galapagos National Park (GNP), the institution responsible for the management and conservation of Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki), recognized the need to coordinate the efforts of various actors (governmental, academic, non-government organizations and the organized civil society) with the purpose of generating research, monitoring and conservation actions. Thus, the establishment of a vision of regional management for the long-term conservation of the species throughout its entire geographic range is of paramount importance