Digest: Whole genomes delimit multiple species of Galapagos giant tortoises.

Abstract

Utilizing whole genome sequencing and multiple species delimitation models, Gaughran et al. (2025) show support for up to 13 distinct living Galapagos giant tortoise species, in contrast to the current classification of a single species. This result highlights the potential for rapidly radiating organisms on islands to act as model systems for investigating species boundaries, helping to settle taxonomic debates.