Until January 16, the isolated chain of islands comprising the Galapagos remained pristine and largely unaffected by human activities. It is here, right on the equator where the confluence of ocean currents has created a highly diverse and distinct ecosystem, that Darwin's theory of evolution was, in part, shaped. While still too early to know for sure, it appears that these currents carried much of the oil out to sea where nature spared the scientifically historic islands from major harm. The Galapagos are often called enchanted isles. About 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, they are in one of the most active volcanic regions on earth.
Every island is a volcano.
But just as in Hawaii, eruptions seldom occur and when they do the volcanic material comes out gently, not explosively. The result is a landscape of eye-catching shapes and patterns, unlike any other in the world. Despite favorable weather, fuel has washed ashore on five of the Galapagos's 13 major islands. But in addition to NOAA's help and that of local resources, a determined community-wide effort has kept much of the bunker fuel off beaches and rocky coasts. Satellite imagery and aerial photography are examining coastlines.