Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi
A species of Marine iguana Scientific name : Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi Genus : Marine iguana
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi, A species of Marine iguana
Scientific name: Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi
Genus: Marine iguana
Content
Description General Info
Description
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi is a unique creature, showing high adaptation to its harsh environment. It engages in a rare behavior known as 'marine foraging', venturing into the ocean to feed on algae, straying considerably from the typical herbivorous diet of its counterparts. Furthermore, it has developed sophisticated salt expulsion glands to handle the salty intake, a remarkable physiological adaptation pivotal for its survival on the Galápagos Islands.
General Info
Lifespan
50-60 years
Diet
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi primarily feeds on marine algae, which it skillfully scrapes off rocky substrates underwater. Its sharp beak further enables it to also consume smaller organisms hiding within the algae.
Appearance
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi is a medium-sized marine iguana characterized by its flat body covered in dark-hued, bumpy scales. Notably, males are generally larger than females and exhibit territorial coloration changes during mating season, turning from black to shades of red and green. Its most distinguishing features include a blunt snout, spiny dorsal crest, and a long, tapering tail adapted for swimming.
Behavior
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi exhibits unique thermoregulation behavior by basking in the sun in the morning to raise body temperature, followed by regulating it via ocean swims at midday. This species is known for its almost exclusive herbivorous diet, mainly of marine algae. Social in nature, they form large colonies, their size indicating social rank.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Iguanids Genus
Marine iguana Species
Amblyrhynchus cristatus hassi 
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