Marine iguanas
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Marine iguanas
Marine iguanas (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) basking on rocks. This is the only truly marine species of lizard. It spends much of its time feeding on seaweed and algae near the shore. Because the waters it inhabits are cold, it basks in the sun to raise its body temperature. It is a large lizard which can reach up to two metres in length. It is only found along the rocky coastlines of the Galapagos Islands. It used to exist in vast colonies, but its numbers have declined recently due to the unusually strong 1982-83 El Nino climate event and the impact of introduced predators such as rats and cats. Photographed in the Galapagos Islands
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6463673
© DOUG ALLAN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Amblyrhynchus Cristatus Basking Couple Endangered Galapagos Islands Herbivore Herbivorous Marine Iguana Rare Reptile Reptilia Rock Rocks Rocky Sunning Thermo Regulation Threatened Iguanas
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing sight of Marine iguanas, Amblyrhynchus cristatus, basking gracefully on sun-kissed rocks. As the only truly marine species of lizard, these fascinating creatures spend their days feasting on seaweed and algae near the shore. In order to regulate their body temperature in the cold waters they inhabit, they seek warmth by luxuriating under the radiant sun. With a remarkable length that can reach up to two meters, these majestic lizards are exclusively found along the rocky coastlines of the Galapagos Islands. Once thriving in vast colonies, their numbers have sadly dwindled due to various factors such as the devastating 1982-83 El Nino climate event and predation from introduced predators like rats and cats. The image captured by Science Photo Library transports us into this unique habitat where nature's wonders unfold. It serves as a poignant reminder of both the resilience and vulnerability of our planet's diverse wildlife. The marine iguana's herbivorous diet coupled with its distinctive thermo-regulation behavior adds further intrigue to this rare sighting. As we admire this pair of marine iguanas soaking up sunlight on rugged rocks against an azure backdrop, let us reflect upon our responsibility to protect endangered species like them. This photograph encapsulates not just a moment frozen in time but also serves as a call for conservation efforts aimed at preserving Earth's precious biodiversity for generations to come.
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