Unique species on the Galápagos Islands are under threat from mosquitoes introduced by tourist planes and boats, according to research published today.
The southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, capable of carrying West Nile fever and avian malaria, is being transported from mainland Ecuador and breeding with existing populations on the islands, prompting fears of disease outbreaks.
Endemic birds, including the waved albatross, red-footed booby and flightless cormorant, may also be vulnerable.