For those who ever end up on the rugged shores of the Galápagos Islands, you would possibly spot one thing actually uncommon—a lizard swimming within the sea. That is the marine iguana, the one lizard on the planet that lives a part of its life underwater.
Most lizards are land lovers, however not this one. The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) has developed to thrive on land and sea, making it one among nature’s uncommon oddities. You’ll solely discover it within the Galápagos, and watching it dive into the chilly Pacific Ocean is like seeing a dinosaur reawakened.
A better take a look at this seafaring reptile
The marine iguana doesn’t simply paddle round for enjoyable—it dives into the ocean to feed on algae and seaweed that develop on underwater rocks. They will maintain their breath for as much as half-hour, though most of their dives are brief, round 5–10 minutes.
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They aren’t flashy swimmers, however they’ve obtained sturdy, flat tails—like a crocodile’s—that assist them transfer simply. Their lengthy claws are good for hanging onto rocks when the waves crash.
However after a swim, they get chilly. Being cold-blooded means they depend on the solar to heat up. So that you’ll usually see them mendacity flat on the volcanic rocks, absorbing warmth like a photo voltaic panel.
Although they might appear sluggish and sluggish, particularly when sunbathing, they will transfer quick if threatened (Supply: Wikimedia Commons)
Residing within the ocean means swallowing quite a lot of saltwater, and that’s not ideally suited. These iguanas have a intelligent trick: they sneeze out the salt by means of particular glands close to their noses. It’s not probably the most glamorous talent, but it surely retains their our bodies balanced.
In addition they have darkish, scaly pores and skin that heats up rapidly, serving to them get better from the ocean’s chill. Throughout breeding season, males get vibrant—generally turning crimson and inexperienced—to impress the females.
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Marine iguanas don’t stay fancy lives. They huddle collectively for heat, particularly at evening, and lay their eggs in sandy burrows on land. The infants hatch weeks later and should be taught rapidly to outlive—hawks and snakes are all the time watching.
Although they might appear sluggish and sluggish, particularly when sunbathing, they will transfer quick if threatened. They aren’t aggressive however will puff up and bob their heads to warn others.
Why they want our assist
Sadly, marine iguanas are susceptible to extinction. Rising ocean temperatures, oil spills, and invasive animals like rats and cats threaten their eggs and meals provide. Even one thing so simple as plastic waste can hurt them.
Efforts are underway within the Galápagos to guard their nesting websites and hold their ecosystems clear. Scientists usually monitor the populations, and native conservation teams are working arduous to manage invasive species and educate guests.
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When Charles Darwin visited the Galápagos within the 1830s, he known as them “imps of darkness.” However over time, individuals have grown to admire their unusual magnificence. These historical reptiles live hyperlinks to a time when dinosaurs dominated the world.
And whereas most of us could by no means see one in particular person, the marine iguana reminds us of how life can adapt in probably the most shocking methods.
