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 The
marine iguana is unique to the Galapagos islands, and is the world's
only sea-going lizard. It feeds on marine algae which it finds in
shallow water and on the lava rocks at the edge of the shore.
Marine iguanas can stay in the water for quite a long time without breathing, but because they are reptiles they have to come back on land to warm up in the sun between swims. They often blow salty water out of their nostrils, which has earned them the name "little dragons". |
 Galapagos
sea lions are often to be found playing with divers and snorkellers.
The young ones are very curious and friendly.
However if you meet a big male sea lion on the beach you need to be careful because they can get quite aggressive. |
 This
is a sea urchin which is unique to the Galapagos. |
 This
peculiar looking fish is a hammerhead shark. You will only see them
in the Galapagos if you go diving, and everyone who has experienced
this says it is the highlight of their stay. |
 Sea
cucumbers may not look very attractive, but they play a very important
role in the marine ecosystem of the Galapagos. Unfortunately, they
are also very popular as a food in the Far East and can be a profitable
catch for the Galapagos fishing fleets. Because of this they are only
allowed to be harvested according to very strict rules. |
 Starfish
are almost as important and much prettier. |
