Wildlife

Marine Iguana Welfare Climate

Galapagos marine iguanas face severe welfare impacts during El Nino events when warming waters eliminate their algae food sources.

Key Facts

Marine iguanas are the only sea-foraging lizard in the world
El Nino events cause warming that kills the green algae marine iguanas depend on
Marine iguanas have evolved to shrink their skeletons during famine to reduce caloric needs
Starvation mortality during El Nino can exceed 60% in some populations

Welfare Considerations

Marine iguanas experiencing algae scarcity during El Nino events suffer from progressive starvation that causes massive mortality. This natural but intensifying welfare crisis has documented suffering at individual and population levels. Climate change is increasing El Nino frequency and intensity, making food scarcity events more common and severe. Conservation of Galapagos marine environments provides some protection.

What You Can Do

Support Galapagos conservation organizations protecting marine iguana habitat
Advocate for climate action that reduces El Nino intensification
Support marine protected areas around the Galapagos Islands
Follow Galapagos conservation news and welfare research