Near the main town of Puerto Villamil, there is a small volcanic island named Tintoreras. Lichens coat the volcanic rocks. Over time, these pioneer species will aid in the accumulation of soil, which can then support a more complex plant community.

Marine iguanas (pioneer species) had to adapt to an island without a food source. These are an exciting exception to what is usually seen as pioneer species. Marine iguanas are herbivores that consume seaweed from the ocean as their diet. They are the only type of lizard known to engage in this behavior. These were easily my favorite species during my visit to the Galapagos Islands.