Marine Iguana

About

How marine iguana lives

Marine iguanas live on Galapagos shores and dive into the sea to graze algae from rocks. Marine iguanas sneeze out excess salt through glands near the nose. Coastal species are often adapted to tides, wind exposure, and rapidly changing shorelines.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink. Protecting marine iguana also depends on keeping coast, ocean habitats healthy and connected.

Vulnerable species can decline quickly when habitat loss, climate pressure, or human conflict intensifies.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Marine iguanas sneeze out excess salt through glands near the nose.
• Many reptiles conserve energy well and can remain still for long periods before a quick burst of movement.
• Coastal species are often adapted to tides, wind exposure, and rapidly changing shorelines.
• Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink.