The world renowned geologist Teodoro Wolf
states that the iguana that abounds in South America is the last living
representative of the dinosaur age that dates back millions of years ago. In
the Enchanted Islands there are two types of iguanas: the marine and the
terrestrial, both very distinctly different in size and general
appearance. Let’s take a look
The Galapagos
marine iguana is an endemic variety that flourishes in the rocky
areas of the island’s north and south. Scientifically known as Amblyrhynchus
cristatus, this scaly reptile species is unique to say the least. This reptile
has the ability to remain under water for 45 minutes, at a depths of 15 meters
in search of fresh, green aquatic vegetation that is its primary source of
food.. It is truly an amazing sight to admire this prehistoric creature sunning
its self, or gorging on algae along the spectacular beaches that surround the
islands.
Iguanas with their
flat tails, long claws and three sharp teeth have the ability to attach
themselves to the rocks and not be swept away by the tides and currents of the
sea. Their bodies measure between 80 to 90 centimeters in length, and are
covered from head to tail to protect themselves. Perhaps this is how they were able to
survive. Making them even more adaptable, they possess a smooth snout and
dorsal fin allowing them to glide through the water like a fish making them
even more elusive.
Marine iguanas have
the ability to move blood away from their outer protective layer like a cold
blooded fish to keep warm. And also has the ability to dramatically reduce its
heart rate to conserve energy in a dormant state. They also possess the ability
to separate salt from the ocean waters through a gland near their nose.
The land iguana starkly
characterized by brilliant colors of yellow, red and brown tones is an entirely
different looking cousin of the aquatic lizard. It has an entirely different
preference for its’s diet. Cactus, Palo Santo leaves and plants of the insular
area like algae and Muyu are among some of its favorites. Also in contrast,
with lizard protects it’s self from foes by hiding in burrows they dig deeply
in the arid desert like portions of the islands. Alarmingly, this land based
variant’s numbers have been decreasing, but still flourish in Fernandina thanks
to the tremendous conservation efforts.
The land based
iguana being an endemic reptile, is more commonly seen in the arid environments
of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Fernandina islands and Plaza.
The most colorful
variations with brilliant colorations of reds and greens, reside in Española
Island; however the largest of the land based are typically seen on Isabela and
Fernandina Island, and for some reason their smaller cousins preferring
Genovesa Island.
Manmade issues constantly pose a threat to both land
and marine iguanas threating their numbers. That dwells on and off the water
creates problems for them. Fishing nets can be deadly for the marine breed,
while plastic water bottles, and other debree is a issue for the land based
lizards. Please keep this in mind during
your visit, and help perserve this one of a kind creature.
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