[guh-lah-puh-gohs; Sp. gah-lah-pah-gaws] 
| an archipelago on the equator in the Pacific, ab. 600 mi. (965 km) W of and belonging to Ecuador: many unique species of animal life. 4058; 3029 sq. mi. (7845 sq. km). |
| Ga·lá·pa·gos Islands (gə-lä'pə-gəs, -lāp'ə-) A group of volcanic islands lying along the equator in the Pacific Ocean west of the mainland of Ecuador. The islands are famous for their rare species of fauna, including the giant tortoises for which they are named. Charles Darwin visited the islands in 1835 and collected a wealth of scientific data that contributed to his theory of natural selection. Tourism is now strictly regulated to protect the endangered species unknown outside the archipelago. |
Groups of islands in the Pacific Ocean off South America, owned by Ecuador.
Note: The islands are known for their tortoises, penguins, marine iguanas, and other unusual animals.
Note: Charles Darwin visited these islands and gathered evidence that supported his theory of natural selection.
pəˌgoʊs