Embedded Files
ThoughCo.
Background
Background
The Galápagos marine iguana, Amblyrhynchus cristatusis, is endemic to the Galápagos Archipelago. The only known species of lizard that regularly feeds at sea, the marine iguana often resides on coastal rocks. Thousands can be seen soaking up the heat from the sun, readying themselves for their cold plunge in search of food.
The marine iguana has a rather blunt skull, which distinguishes this species from other iguanids. Weight of this organism ranges from approximately 2 to 26 pounds, and length ranges from approximately 2 to 5.5 feet. Size varies greatly depending on island. The marine iguanas closest related relatives are the green iguana (Iguana iguana) and the black spiny-tailed iguana (Ctenosaura similis)
A Berry et al.; compared shape variation between iguanids
Habitat
Habitat
Marine iguanas are only found in the Galápagos Islands, in Ecuador. There are two seasons in the Galápagos Archipelago: a warm and wet season lasting from January to June, and a cold and dry season lasting from July to December. The Galápagos Islands consist of an isolated set of volcanos, which contributes to the unique adaptations of the plants and wildlife that reside on the islands.
Marine iguanas can be found on all of the main islands in the Galápagos. The image on the right details the difference in body shape and size variation between subspecies of marine iguana across the Galápagos Islands, which is a result of the isolation of each subspecies on the island it resides on. The largest subspecies of the marine iguana can be found on Isabela Island.
Often found nesting along rocky shores and beaches, these iguanas feed in the ocean but are considered terrestrial as they can only spend a maximum of 40-50 minutes underwater at a time. While underwater, the oldest, largest and most experienced iguanas can dive up to 12 meters (39 feet). To prepare for these dives, the marine iguana basks under the radiation of the intense equatorial sun. By shifting throughout the day, the marine iguana ensures it does not overheat and stays below 35 degrees Celsius.
A Berry et al.
Watch Them Feed!
Watch Them Feed!
Page updated
Report abuse