Marine Iguana

About Marine Iguana

The world's only ocean-going lizard, endemic to the Galápagos, grazing on underwater algae in a truly unique diving encounter.

Quick Facts

• Habitat: Rocky shorelines, tide pools, and shallow waters of the Galápagos Islands
• Diet: Marine algae and seaweed, grazed from underwater rocks
• Best season: Year-round; breeding season January-April with colourful males

Fun Facts

They can shrink their skeleton during food-scarce El Niño events,Marine iguanas sneeze out excess salt through a nasal gland,Charles Darwin famously called them 'hideous' and 'most disgusting',Different island populations vary dramatically in size and colour

Diving Tips

Marine iguanas are best observed snorkelling in shallow waters. They are remarkably tolerant of humans.