The Chelonoidis elephantopus is a specific type of Galapagos tortoise that was found only on the island of Floreana and is believed to have been wiped out around 150 years ago.

Researchers working with different types of Galapagos tortoise on other islands in the area think that one of the animals they have found is the offspring of a Chelonoidis elephantopus. The new discovery appears to be a hybrid of Chelonoidis elephantopus and another type of Galapagos tortoise, and is only 15 years old. This means that the parents are likely to still be alive. Further research has found other hybrid tortoises that most probably have a purebred Chelonoidis elephantopus as a parent.

There are many species of Galapagos tortoise living on the various islands. Each species has very subtle differences and it is unusual for them to meet.