Welfare of Marine Iguanas During El Nino Events

Galapagos marine iguanas are uniquely vulnerable to El Nino climate events that destroy their algal food supply, causing mass starvation.

Key Facts

Marine iguanas are the only sea-going lizards in the world
They shrink their bodies during food scarcity by reabsorbing bone
El Nino events can kill 50-60% of marine iguana populations in affected areas
They recover when La Nina conditions return nutrient-rich cold water
Their unique adaptations represent millions of years of isolated evolution

Welfare Considerations

Marine iguanas during El Nino events experience prolonged starvation that involves significant suffering before the remarkable adaptation of body shrinkage occurs. Weakened individuals are more vulnerable to predation. The transition period between adequate food and full starvation involves acute hunger. While their recovery capacity is extraordinary, the suffering during severe El Nino events is real. Climate change is expected to increase El Nino intensity and frequency.

What You Can Do

Support Galapagos Conservation Trust programs protecting marine iguana habitat
Advocate for climate action that reduces El Nino intensity
Donate to Galapagos research monitoring marine iguana population health
Learn about Galapagos ecosystems and the unique evolutionary pressures that shaped marine iguanas