The Galápagos tortoise is one of the largest tortoise species in the world, native to the Galápagos Islands. These gentle giants can weigh over 500 pounds and live for more than 100 years. They have a unique dome-shaped shell that helps them store water and survive in their arid environment. These tortoises play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to maintain the vegetation on the islands. Sadly, they faced threats from human activities and introduced species, leading to a decline in their population. Conservation efforts are now in place to protect these remarkable creatures and their habitat.