Volcanoes

Volcanoes in the Galapagos:

Volcanoes have played a huge role in the physical formation of the Galapagos. Consistent volcanic eruptions lead to island formation over time.

There are many factors that make the Galapagos unique. Below are some of the worlds volcanic hot-spots Hot-spots are located in the earth's mantle where magma is formed from volcanic activity.

                                         http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/dynamic/world_map.html

Fernandina Island is the largest island of the Galapagos, which is home to La Cumbre Volcano. This volcano is still active and last erupted in 2009.

                                          Photo: La Cumbre Volcano

NASA images of the Fernandina Plume (NASA image by Jeff Schmaltz, MODIS Rapid Response Team, Goddard Space Flight Center

The Cumbre Volcano is considered a Basalt Shield volcano. Basalt Shield volcanoes can be identified by their oblique shape. Other characteristics of shield volcanoes are their low gently sloping side. They are usually found at constructive or tensional boundaries.

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They are formed by eruptions of thin, runny lava. Eruptions tend to be frequent but relatively gentle.

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Frequent Volcanic Eruption Dangers:

The unique species of wild life and plant life that live on the Galapagos are one of a kind.  Volcanic eruptions often kill many plants and animals that only exist in the Galapagos. It's rare forms of species would be difficult to replace. Another long term impact of frequent volcanic eruptions is that it may affect tourism. The volcanoes of the Galapagos including La Cumbre are major attractions for tourism, which is a major source of revenue for these islands.