The eruption of La Cumbre volcano on uninhabited Fernandina Island began on April 11.

Lava and ash have emerged from three vents on one side of La Cumbre, with the lava flow reaching 30 feet in width at one point.

According to park officials, scalding water heated by the lava has killed several species of fish along with several fur seals.

But, Galapagos officials say that the rare and endangered species on Fernandina do not appear to be in danger.

They point out that because the southern side of the island around La Cumbre is the area of greatest volcanic activity, animals do not form permanent populations there, favoring the eastern and northern parts of the island.

Volcanic eruptions are part of the natural processes that created the Galapagos. Most wildlife have adapted to remain safe from the lava, ash and gas.

Satellite images on Tuesday revealed a column of gas and water vapor extending more than 150 miles downwind to the west of the islands, which Ecuadorian vulcanologists said demonstrates that the volcanic activity has increassed in recent days.

Photo: Parque Nacional Galápagos – Ecuador