This is the result of a months-long expedition in the archipelago. The breeding ground for the animals is off the island of Isabela, about a thousand kilometers from the mainland.
With the new discovery, three areas are known around the Galápagos Islands where hammerhead sharks raise their young. Exact locations are deliberately not given by the national park management to protect endangered animal species.
The Galapagos Archipelago is home to a unique flora and fauna that once inspired British explorer Charles Darwin to develop his theory of evolution. The waters surrounding the islands are believed to have the highest density of sharks in the world.
Only in November did the World Species Conference decide to better protect 54 other shark species, including hammerhead sharks. The animals are primarily hunted for shark meat, and especially because shark fin soup is considered a delicacy in East Asian countries. Often, after their fins are cut off, sharks are thrown back into the sea, where they slowly die.
(SDA)