Unique Plants and Animals of the

Baja California Pacific Islands

Executive Summary

In the spring of 2015, a group of botanists, herpetologists, cultural anthropologists, and naturalists, led by Dr. Sula Vanderplank, departed San Diego Harbor on an expedition to the coastal Pacific islands of Baja California, Mexico. Between March 28th and April 5th, the Shogun and her crew carried the research team to 7 unique islands and island groups, many of which are rarely visited by scientists. Besides soaking in the breathtaking beauty of these wild places, the team updated long neglected species lists, collected specimens of plants and animals, and took copious photographs. Results included discovering new populations of long-lost plants and animals, as well confirmation of the absences of rare species likely now extinct. In addition, new arrivals were documented for various islands, highlighting the fragility and dynamic nature of insular ecosystems. The publication, Unique Plants and Animals of the Baja California Pacific Islands, available free for download here is the product of this expedition.

Coronado Islands

The Coronado Islands consist of three islands and one islet, with a total combined area of 1.7 km2 (0.67 mi2), found just 13.5 km (8.4 mi) from the shores of Tijuana. The island boasts a flora of 146 plants, 2 amphibians, 8 reptiles, and 1 mammal. Of these, 3 plants and 5 animals are found nowhere else on Earth. Island vegetation is largely dominated by a mix of coastal sage scrub and succulent coastal scrub.

Todos Santos Islands

The Todos Santos Islands consist of two islands adjacent to Ensenada, roughly 2.5 km2 (1 mi2) in area, lying 6.25 km (4 mi) offshore. Researchers now believe that they were historically connected to the mainland by a land bridge from the north and not to the nearby Punta Banda peninsula, from which they are separated by a deep trench. The Todos Santos Islands boast a flora of 147 vascular plants, 1 amphibian, 7 reptiles, and 2 mammals.