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Invasive species are a global threat to native fauna and flora, and their effects are exacerbated in islands’ ecosystems. The Galapagos archipelago has been the focus of evolutionary biology since Darwin‘s observations on finches, seminal for developing his theory of natural selection. Galapagos’ unique biodiversity is threatened by species introduced for agricultural, livestock and ornamental purposes. Exotic earthworms are known to favor the establishment of invasive plants, which in turn displace endemic vegetation. Giant tortoises wander large distances every year, creating corridors that maintain connectivity between the highlands and lowlands, and are known to disperse seeds from invasive plants. These open areas may be mediating earthworms’ spread and affecting ecological integrity. We aim to understand exotic earthworm colonization routes and patterns and the role of environmental factors, with a focus on the migratory corridors of tortoises, but also considering human disturbance. Results will help identify habitat preferences of exotic earthworms, their relationship with other species and potential for invasion meltdown. Then, it will be possible to propose measures for invasion management as well as strategies to prevent further spread. 

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