The marine iguana (Amblyrynchus cristatus) is the world's only seagoing lizard. Like other marine reptiles
(except some sea snakes) it still must return to land to breed. However, it seems better adapted to life in the
water. It swims gracefully with sinuous movements of its long tail, which is strong enough to propel it through
pounding waves. Only the big males need to take this risk—to get to where there's enough food for them.
Their main diet is low-growing algae that does best in cool water. Females and young iguanas feed on the shore and
rarely venture into the ocean. Little is known about the risks from predators. It is assumed that some of the iguanas
fall victim to sharks, but this is not documented. Sealions leave them alone, except for boisterous pups who like to
harass a helpless iguana by pulling its tail!
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