This page contains photos of the Galapagos Marine Iguana. This is the only truly marine lizard in the world and is endemic to the Galapagos. They feed almost exclusively on marine algae. The larger males are able to swim out thru the surf and dive down to 30 ft, hanging on to rocks with their powerful claws to graze on the algae. They can stay underwater for up to an hour by slowing down their heartbeat. Smaller marine iguanas tend to stay on the shore to graze on the algae in tide pools and low tide. To regulate their body temperature, marine iguanas spend cool nights in clusters, lying on top of each other. They come out during the day to bask in the sun, their dark bodies soaking up the rays. Specially enlarged glands help remove excess salt from their diet - they eject it forcibly from their nostrils - like a sneeze. Close up their heads are often covered with dried salt. During mating seasons, their color changes to deep red. Raised triangular scales on the top of males head serve, like deer antlers, to interlock during bouts of territorial shoving.

I'm Ready to Fight	Iguanas Everywhere	Where is Everyone?
A Rock to Myself	What's that I Smell?	A Face Only a Mother Could Love
Polaris in Background	My Turn for the Top	Piling up for Warmth
It Must be Breeding Season	Where is my Mate?	Hanging On
Basking in the Sun	Pile of Marine Iguanas	That was a Nice Swim

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