The Amblyrhynchus cristatus, commonly known as the Marine Iguana, is the only lizard adapted to life in the ocean. It is found only on the Galápagos Islands. Recognizable for its dark, rough skin and flat tail, it has sharp claws for gripping rocks underwater while feeding on algae. These iguanas are known for their unique ability to expel salt from their nostrils after ingesting seawater.

Amblyrhynchus cristatus, commonly known as the Marine Iguana, is endemic to the Galápagos Islands, an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The species is found on most of the islands within the archipelago.

Marine Iguanas inhabit rocky shorelines and coastal areas where they bask on volcanic rocks. They are adapted to a marine lifestyle, often found in intertidal zones. The climate in their habitat is equatorial and semi-arid, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The islands experience two distinct seasons: a warm, wet season from January to May and a cooler, dry season from June to December.

Marine Iguanas are unique among modern lizards due to their ability to forage in the sea. They primarily feed on marine algae, which they scrape off rocks in shallow waters. Their ecological niche includes being the only marine reptile that feeds exclusively on underwater vegetation. To survive in their niche, they have developed adaptations such as flattened tails for swimming, strong limbs with sharp claws for clinging to rocks, and specialized glands to expel excess salt ingested while feeding.