31/10/2025
Meet the marine iguana, often called the “Mini Godzilla” of the Galápagos Islands — and for good reason. It’s the only lizard species on Earth that has evolved to live and feed in the ocean, diving up to 9 meters (30 feet) below the surface to graze on algae. With its razor-sharp claws for gripping slippery rocks and a flattened tail for swimming, it looks straight out of prehistory. Its rough, spiky skin and dragon-like stare make it one of nature’s most ancient survivors — a true relic of evolution.
After braving the icy Pacific waters, these reptiles crawl back onto volcanic rocks to bask in the sun, raising their body temperature after long underwater dives. They even sneeze out excess salt through specialized glands to stay healthy and hydrated. Scientists believe these adaptations are a rare evolutionary response to island isolation — proof of how life can shape itself to conquer even the harshest environments.