WASHINGTON (PRWEB)
December 17, 2020

On December 17, Galapagos Conservancy, Inc. launched a public auction of naming rights for three new-to-science sea sponges discovered in the Galapagos Archipelago. The auction is online and offers an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by naming one of these rare shallow water sea sponges. Online bidding begins on December 17, 2020, at http://www.galapagos.org/auction and will end at midnight on December 31. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to research and conservation efforts to protect the Galapagos marine habitat, helping to save these new species from extinction.

The auction showcases three new, endemic species that are likely endangered. Interested bidders can choose between the orange or pink rock dwelling sponges, or opt for the translucent, melon colored sponge found hidden in an underwater cave. One of the sponge species was discovered at a site visited by Charles Darwin in 1835.

“Although there has been extensive marine research in Galapagos — one of the world’s most unique biodiversity hotspots — this is the first comprehensive study of shallow-water sponges” said Professor Cleve Hickman, the discoverer of the sponges and Professor Emeritus of Biology at Washington & Lee University.

Sea sponges are the oldest known form of animal life, having existed for over 600 million years. While better known for bathing and the caricature “SpongeBob SquarePants”, the humble sea sponge has been key to many medical breakthroughs, including an anti-leukemia drug.

“These discoveries highlight the importance of researching and protecting the Galapagos marine ecosystem. Our auction will enable three people to not just name a new species after someone or something special to them, but do so knowing that their legacy is tied to saving an entire species.” commented Dr. Paul Salaman, President of Galapagos Conservancy.

Naming a species is a unique opportunity for those who care about protecting the planet and its inhabitants; are in search of a gift that makes a direct impact; or want to leave a meaningful legacy. Dr. Salaman himself has discovered several bird species, and in 1994 originated the trend of offering naming rights of newly discovered species to raise funds for conservation. Now leading Galapagos Conservancy, Salaman hopes to raise more than $10,000 per species to protect these three unique sea sponges and their habitats.

Once rich marine natural resources in Galapagos now face immense threats from climate change, fishing pressure and human activities. The last bastions of safety for many marine species are the protected areas, such as the Galapagos Marine Reserve. This is a pivotal time for ensuring that key areas get the protection they need to help conserve threatened marine species, in Galapagos and globally.

About Galapagos Conservancy: For the past 35 years, Galapagos Conservancy has helped protect the unique biodiversity and ecosystems of Galapagos by supporting research, conservation, outreach, and building a sustainable society. Galapagos Conservancy is the only US-based organization focused on protecting the Galapagos archipelago. Learn more at http://www.galapagos.org.

Images: Unrestricted use with credits to “Cleveland Hickman and Angel Chiriboga” available at: https://www.flickr.com/gp/galapagosconservancy/1c35G0

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