The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus), also known as the sea iguana, saltwater iguana, or Galápagos marine iguana, is a species of iguana found only on the Galápagos Islands (Ecuador). Unique among modern lizards, it is a marine reptile that has the ability to forage in the sea for algae, which makes up almost all of its diet. [5] .

The Galapagos reptiles evolved in remarkable ways, and most reptiles found in the islands are now considered endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world. Here are some of the more extraordinary endemic Galapagos reptiles.

List and descriptions of the common species of reptiles in the Galapagos including where to find each one in Adventure Life's Galapagos wildlife guide.

The much-maligned marine iguanas of the Galápagos Islands are so famously homely, even Charles Darwin piled on, describing them as "hideous-looking" and "most disgusting, clumsy lizards."

The marine iguana is the only lizard in the world with the ability to live and forage at sea, and is endemic to the Galapagos Archipelago. There are eleven very similar subspecies, found on different islands, with those from Isabela and Fernandina being the largest.

The Marine Iguana is well adapted to life in the ocean – it swims gracefully with sinuous movements of its long tail which is powerful enough to act as a propeller, propelling the lizard through pounding waves.

The Galápagos land iguana (Conolophus subcristatus) is a very large species of lizard in the family Iguanidae, and one of three species of the genus Conolophus. It is endemic to the Galápagos Islands off of Ecuador's Pacific coast, inhabiting the dry lowlands of Fernandina, Isabela, Santa Cruz, North Seymour, Baltra, and South Plaza islands ...

The Galapagos supports 25 native species of reptile (19 endemic). Charles Darwin labeled the islands a “paradise” for reptiles—cold-blooded creatures with slow metabolisms that don’t necessitate a large supply of food and skin that offers sun protection.

Galapagos reptiles are amazing. They show nature’s wonders and adaptations. From giant tortoises to marine iguanas, these creatures captivate visitors. Protecting them ensures future generations can enjoy their beauty too. Explore the Galapagos Islands to see these unique reptiles up close.

The Galapagos Marine Iguana is the only lizard on the planet able to swim at sea. Learn how & why they learned to swim, plus where to see them at the Galapagos.