Amblyrhynchus cristatus

Marine Iguana

60-100 cm
10-12 år
Sårbar
Om

Marine Iguana

The marine iguana is the world's only ocean-going lizard, found exclusively in the Galápagos Islands. These remarkable reptiles have evolved to feed on underwater algae, diving to depths of up to 12 metres and spending up to 30 minutes submerged. Their dark colour helps them absorb heat after their cold underwater foraging sessions.

Storlek

60-100 cm (total length, artberoende)

Vikt

1-12 kg

Livslängd

10-12 år

Status

Sårbar

Var du hittar dem

Bästa dykplatser

Fernandina Island, GalápagosIsabela Island, GalápagosEspañola Island, Galápagos

Dyktips

Marine iguanas are best observed snorkelling in shallow waters. They are remarkably tolerant of humans and will continue feeding even with snorkellers nearby. Look for them on rocky shores warming up before and after feeding dives. Keep a respectful distance and never block their path back to shore.

Bästa säsong

Year-round; breeding season January-April with colourful males

Livsmiljö

Rocky shorelines, tide pools, and shallow waters of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Föda

Marine algae and seaweed, grazed from underwater rocks
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Roliga fakta

1

They can shrink their skeleton during food-scarce El Niño events

2

Marine iguanas sneeze out excess salt through a nasal gland

3

Charles Darwin famously called them 'hideous' and 'most disgusting'

4

Different island populations vary dramatically in size and colour

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