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Marine Iguanas are unique to the Galapagos Archipelago and are the only lizards in the world that swim in the ocean for their food. They spend their days warming themselves on the black lava rocks huddled together to retain as much heat as they can before diving to the ocean to eat. The black color of the marine iguana also helps it to absorb as much sunlight as possible. After feeding, they need to sunbathe to bring their body temperature back up. Their long claws allow them to grab the surface of the rocks as they feed on algae and seaweed. Adults can dive up to 9 ft. to rip algae and seaweed off the rocks with their very small, very sharp teeth. Young marine iguanas feed at low tide as they don’t have the strength to dive to the same depths as adults. They can hold their breath for a staggering 60 minutes, but usually opt for shorter dives of about 40 minutes. Despite the sharp teeth and long claws, they are herbivores.

Photography on Slickrock metallic paper with acrylic facemount on Dibond