Iguana Species · Galápagos Islands
Marine Iguana
The only seagoing lizard — dives for algae and is strictly protected wildlife.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) is the Galápagos seagoing lizard — dives for algae and sneezes salt through nasal glands. Its defining trait is strict protected wildlife status: tourism must keep distance; they are never pets under Ecuadorian and international law.
Marine Iguana: At a Glance
| Origin | Galápagos Islands |
|---|---|
| Size | Large (1–1.5 kg) |
| Typical weight | 1–1.5 kg (2.2–3.3 lb); size varies by island population |
| Lifespan | 15–60 years (species-dependent; wild) |
| Scales & colour | Dark grey-black skin for heat absorption after cold dives; males brighter seasonal colour. Unique marine foraging adaptation — no domestic analogue. |
| Temperament | Gregarious, marine forager, protected |
| Conservation note | Galápagos protected wildlife only — dense colonies bask on lava shores under strict tourism rules. Zero pet suitability. |
History & Origins
Marine iguanas evolved only in Galápagos, feeding on intertidal algae. El Niño events cause starvation when algae dies off — populations can shrink dramatically. Charles Darwin noted their tameness — modern protection replaces exploitation. Export and pet keeping prohibited.
Marine Iguana Fun Facts
- Only seagoing lizard — dives several metres for marine algae.
- Sneezes excess salt from nasal glands after feeding underwater.
- Shrink body size during El Niño food shortages — rare adult shrinkage.
- Endemic to Galápagos — export prohibited.
Marine Iguana Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Habitat loss (wild)
Climate change and El Niño reduce intertidal algae food supply.
Care: Support Galápagos conservation and climate mitigation — not pet trade.
El Niño algae die-offs
Warm water events wipe out algae — iguanas starve.
Care: Fund Galápagos monitoring and research programmes.
Oil spill contamination
Marine pollution coats iguanas and destroys algae beds.
Care: Support marine protection around Galápagos archipelago.
Most iguanas are not beginner pets
Green iguanas grow to two metres and live twenty years — most owners are unprepared. Released pets become invasive. Consider adoption only if you can meet specialist reptile welfare standards.
