Galapagos giant tortoise trafficking case demonstrates the utility and applications of long‐term comprehensive genetic monitoring

Abstract

AbstractIllegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) is a cause for global concern as pressure stemming from IWT threatens wild species and can even lead to extinction. Galapagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis sp.) are a group of threatened species protected under CITES, which forbids their import–export for international trade; however, IWT of this group persists. In this study, we describe the use of two extensive genetic repositories of mitochondrial and nuclear microsatellite markers for Galapagos giant tortoises to identify an unsuspected source of trafficked juvenile tortoises. Our genetic analyses, together with morphological and captive‐born registry data, provide evidence that the smuggled juveniles were from two breeding centers dedicated toward conservation located on the Galapagos islands of San Cristobal and Isabela. This is the first documentation of smuggled tortoises being taken from breeding centers rather than the wild. The findings from our genetic analysis provided key evidence that enabled legal investigation. This case demonstrates the importance of the comprehensive genetic characterization of Galapagos giant tortoises and the suitability of standard genetic markers for identifying the species and islands of origin of trafficked animals. We also discuss the efficacy, adequacy, and reach of existing measures against IWT. Overall, this case illustrates an important application of long‐term and comprehensive genetic repositories of endangered species and the crucial role of collaborations among academic laboratories maintaining those repositories, local practitioners responsible for species protection, and the bodies that implement and enforce antitrafficking regulations.